What do they mean if the greater electron affinity & electronegative? Can I have example please.

Question

anonymous · Answer

The higher the electronegativity of an element the more the element "wants" electrons.  It is based off of the size and electron configuration of an element.  Take Fluorine (F), the most electronegative element.  In terms of size it is very small so the nucleus of the atom "feels" the effects of the orbiting electrons much mor strongly than when compared to Iodine.  Additionally, F is a halogen needing only 1 more electron to have a satisfied octet.  Therefore it really really really wants that one more electron because it is very close to achieving noble gas configuration and the nucleus is so small that it really feels that need for an electron