Question

consider the positions of carbon, nitrogen, potassium, and calcium on the periodic table. the atoms of which element attract electrons most strongly in chemical bonds?
carbon (c)
calcium (ca)
nitrogen (n)
potassium (k)

Explanation:

Step1: Recall electronegativity concept

Electronegativity measures an atom's ability to attract electrons in a chemical bond.

Step2: Locate elements on periodic table

Carbon (C) is in group 14, nitrogen (N) in group 15, potassium (K) in group 1, and calcium (Ca) in group 2.

Step3: Apply electronegativity trend

Electronegativity increases across a period and decreases down a group. Nitrogen is furthest to the right among the given elements in its period, so it has the highest electronegativity and attracts electrons most strongly in chemical bonds.

Answer:

C. nitrogen (N)