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 trend

Electronegativity increases across a period and decreases down a group.

Step2: Locate elements on periodic table

Carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) are in the second - period, potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) are in the fourth - period.

Step3: Compare electronegativities

Nitrogen is to the right of carbon in the same period, so N has higher electronegativity than C. Potassium and calcium are metals with lower electronegativities compared to non - metals in higher periods. So nitrogen attracts electrons most strongly among the given elements.

Answer:

C. nitrogen (N)