Why do xenon/krypton have relatively high electronegativity

In summary, the conversation discusses the electronegativity of noble gases and how it differs for xenon and krypton compared to other noble gases. The conversation also touches on the idea that science does not answer "why" questions, only "how" questions. A link is provided for further explanation on the topic.
  • #1
psuedoben
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2
what sets xenon and krypton apart from the other noble gasses that enables them to have higher electronegativites?
 
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  • #3
haha thanks for the attempt, i too am familiar with google, but i still haven't found any satisfying answers simply through typing it in on the web.
 
  • #4
Well the fact is that we as a species still have much to learn, for there are many things that we don't know. So if you can't find an answer, maybe it has not been solved yet...
 
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  • #5
Alexi-dono said:
So if you can't find an answer, maybe it has not been solved yet...

Or, more likely, the only acceptable answer is "that's what you get when you measure/calculate, possible explanations are too handwavy to make sense".

Please remember that science doesn't answer question "why?". Science answers question "how?". We sometimes try to explain "why" using our knowledge about "how", but it is always a risky business.
 
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  • #6
Um, but the EN of the noble gases decreases down the table!
 
  • #7
Noble gases do not have electro negativity. But E.N decreases down a group and increases left to right across a period. Can you give reference for your question?
 
  • #10
Yeah, okay, is that answer explained in link on post #8 correct?
 

1. Why do xenon and krypton have high electronegativity compared to other noble gases?

Xenon and krypton are both located in group 18 of the periodic table, which is known as the noble gas group. This group is characterized by having a full outer electron shell, making them stable and unreactive. However, xenon and krypton have larger atomic radii and more electron shells than the other noble gases, which results in a stronger attraction between the positively charged nucleus and the negatively charged electrons, giving them a higher electronegativity.

2. What factors contribute to the high electronegativity of xenon and krypton?

The high electronegativity of xenon and krypton can be attributed to their large atomic radii and the number of electron shells they possess. Additionally, these elements have a high effective nuclear charge, meaning that the positive charge of the nucleus is able to attract the electrons more strongly.

3. How does the electronegativity of xenon and krypton compare to other elements?

Xenon and krypton have higher electronegativities compared to other noble gases, but they are still relatively low compared to other elements in the periodic table. This is because the noble gases have a full outer electron shell, making them less likely to attract additional electrons. Compared to non-noble gas elements, the electronegativity of xenon and krypton is relatively low due to their large atomic radii.

4. How does the high electronegativity of xenon and krypton affect their chemical properties?

The high electronegativity of xenon and krypton makes them less reactive compared to other elements. This is because they have a strong attraction for electrons, making it difficult for them to form chemical bonds with other elements. However, they can still form compounds under certain conditions, such as with highly electronegative elements like fluorine.

5. Can the electronegativity of xenon and krypton be altered?

The electronegativity of an element is a fundamental property that cannot be altered. However, it can be affected by external factors such as the presence of other elements and their electronegativities. Additionally, the electronegativity of xenon and krypton can be measured and compared to other elements, but it cannot be changed or manipulated.

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