Question

On moving down the group, the tendency to gain electrons:

• A. decreases
• B. increases
• C. increases and then decreases
• D. decreases and then increases

Answer 1

The correct option is A decreases

On moving down a group, the tendency to gain electrons (electronegativity) decreases as the atomic radius increases due to the increase in number of shells. The increase the distance between the nucleus and outermost shell. This results in decrease in effective nuclear charge. Hence it is easier to lose electrons in stead of gaining electrons.