By referring only to the periodic table, select (a) the most electronegative element in group 13; (b) the least electronegative element in the group As, Se and Br;

Key Concepts

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons in a chemical bond. It is a key factor in determining how atoms interact with each other, influencing bond polarity and molecular structure. The electronegativity values are often referenced from the Pauling scale, where higher values indicate a stronger tendency to attract electrons.

Periodic Trends

Periodic trends refer to the predictable patterns observed in the properties of elements as you move across or down the periodic table. Electronegativity generally increases across a period from left to right and decreases down a group. Understanding these trends helps in predicting the behavior of elements, including their reactivity and bonding characteristics.

Group 13 Elements

Group 13 of the periodic table includes elements such as boron, aluminum, gallium, indium, and thallium. These elements exhibit unique properties, including varying electronegativities. In this group, boron is the most electronegative element, while the other elements show decreasing electronegativity as you move down the group, which is essential for answering questions related to their chemical behavior.