Electronegativity and Polarity

 Hello, and today in class we have discussed Electronegativity.  Now what is this large word?

Electronegativity - A measure of the tendency of an atom to attract electrons from a neighbouring atom.

After reading this definition, you may be wondering, what does that mean???  Well, here is a chart to help you understand better of what it means.

According to this chart, electronegativity values are much more higher at the family of noble gases, and on the far left of the table, the electronegativity is the weakest.

The formula for determining how high the value is, is to use the equation: |value| = |energy1 - energy2|.  Notice the absolute value bars.  Those indicate that the value will always be positive.


Here are some rules to follow:

1. Non-Polar Covalent bonds are formed when the difference between the values is less than 0.5
2. Covalent bonds are formed when the difference is between 0.5 and 1.8
3. Ionic bonds are formed when the difference is over 1.8


Lets do an example:  Hydrogen and Fluorine.


Hydrogen's value is 2.2 and Fluorine's value is 3.98.


3.98-2.2 = 1.78.


These two are covalent bonds because when formed, the difference is between 0.5 and 1.8!

Here is a video, if you guys still do not understand.  Enjoy!