Question

The outer shell configuration of the most electronegative element is

• A. ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^3$
• B. ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^4$
• C. ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^5$
• D. ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^6$

Answer 1

The correct option is C

${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^5$

Explanation for correct option:

(C) ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^5$

• The most electronegative element is fluorine.
• Mostly halogens exhibit the property of electronegativity.
• The halogen family is in the group $17$ which is in the $\mathrm{p}\mathrm{block}.$
• The halogen family has the outer shell configuration of ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^5$.

Explanation for incorrect options:

(A) ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^3$

• This is the general electronic configuration of the boron family which is not electronegative in nature. So, it is an incorrect option.

(B) ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^4$

• This is the general electronic configuration of the carbon family which is not electronegative in nature. So, it is an incorrect option.

(D) ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^6$

• This is the general electronic configuration of the noble gas family. So, it is an incorrect option.

Hence, the correct option is (C) ${\mathrm{ns}}^2{\mathrm{np}}^5$ which is the outer shell configuration of the most electronegative atoms.