How Does Electronegativity Affect Chemical Reactivity?

📚 Topic Summary

Electronegativity, the measure of an atom's ability to attract electrons in a chemical bond, profoundly influences chemical reactivity. A significant difference in electronegativity between two atoms in a bond leads to a polar bond, making the molecule more susceptible to reactions. This polarity creates partial charges ($δ+$ and $δ-$), which act as reactive sites for electrophiles (electron-seeking species) and nucleophiles (nucleus-seeking species). The greater the electronegativity difference, the higher the reactivity, as the bond becomes more polarized and easier to break or form.

For example, consider a molecule of hydrogen fluoride (HF). Fluorine is much more electronegative than hydrogen. The electrons will spend more time around fluorine than hydrogen. Now, imagine water attacking your Hydrogen atom. Water can easily break away your hydrogen because it can form a bond easier than fluorine does! This is where electronegativity differences in molecules can affect reactivity. A significant difference increases reactivity.

🧪 Part A: Vocabulary

Match the terms with their definitions:

Answers: 1-b, 2-c, 3-a, 4-d, 5-e

⚛️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following paragraph using the words: electronegativity, reactivity, polar, partial charges, electrons.

The difference in ___________ between atoms in a bond directly impacts the molecule's __________. A large difference results in a _________ bond, creating __________ (δ+ and δ-) that act as reactive sites. This unequal sharing of ___________ makes the molecule more prone to chemical reactions.

Answers: electronegativity, reactivity, polar, partial charges, electrons

🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking

Explain how understanding electronegativity can help predict the products of a chemical reaction. Provide a specific example to illustrate your point.