Skip to main content
Ch.7 - Covalent Bonding and Electron-Dot Structures
Chapter 7, Problem 47

Predict the electronegativity of the undiscovered element with Z = 119.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand that electronegativity is a measure of the tendency of an atom to attract a bonding pair of electrons. The Pauling scale is the most commonly used electronegativity scale, and it ranges from 0.7 (for Francium) to 4.0 (for Fluorine).
Step 2: Recognize that the element with atomic number Z = 119 would be the first element in the 8th period of the periodic table, following the trend of the periodic table where elements are added in increasing atomic number.
Step 3: Note that electronegativity generally increases across a period (from left to right) and decreases down a group (from top to bottom) on the periodic table. This is due to the increase in effective nuclear charge across a period and the increase in atomic radius down a group.
Step 4: Given that the element with Z = 119 would be the first element in a new period, it would likely have a relatively low electronegativity, similar to the alkali metals (Group 1 elements) in the previous periods.
Step 5: However, keep in mind that predicting the properties of undiscovered elements is not an exact science and the actual electronegativity of the element with Z = 119 could be different due to factors not accounted for in these general trends.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
1m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Electronegativity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons when it forms chemical bonds. It is a key factor in determining the nature of bonds between atoms, influencing whether they will form ionic or covalent bonds. The Pauling scale is commonly used to quantify electronegativity values, with higher values indicating a stronger attraction for electrons.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:10
Electronegativity Trends

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 the electronegativity of undiscovered elements based on their position in the periodic table.
Recommended video:
Guided course
00:38
Periodic Trends

Element Z = 119

Element Z = 119 refers to the hypothetical element that would be located in the seventh period of the periodic table, following element 118 (Oganesson). As a superheavy element, it is expected to exhibit unique properties due to relativistic effects, which can influence its electronegativity. Predictions about its electronegativity must consider both its position in the periodic table and the behavior of similar elements.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:35
Elemental Forms of Elements