Chapter 18, Problem 21STP

To determine

To identify: the factors that affect how strongly an atom is attracted to its electrons.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Protons and neutrons are present in the nucleus. Electrons are negatively charged particles. On the other hand, protons are positively charged particles and neutrons are neutrally charged particles.

Electrons are attracted to the nucleus of the atom and its attraction depends on many factors such as electronegativity, size, and ionization energy, and oxidation number.

As we move left to right in the periodic table, the size of the elements decreases. Therefore, the attraction of electrons towards the nucleus increases. As we move down the group, the size of the atom increases. Therefore, the attraction of electrons towards the nucleus decreases.

As the electronegativity of atoms increases, their attraction towards the nucleus increases.

As the size decreases, the electronegativity increase and vice versa.

On moving left to right, the ionization energy increases, and on moving down the group, ionization energy decreases.

The elements with positive oxidation number loss the electrons and the attraction of outer electrons towards the nucleus decreases. Those with negative oxidation numbers, gain the electrons and their attraction towards the nucleus increases.

Conclusion:

Hence, the size, electronegativity, ionization energy, and oxidation number are the various factors affecting the atoms and the attraction of electrons towards the nucleus.