Reactivity (halogens): The very high chemical reactivity of fluorine is mainly due to what factor? Consider periodic trends and bond energetics. Choose the best reason.

Difficulty: Easy

Its high electronegativity
Small size of fluorine atom
Availability of d-orbitals
Strong F–F bond

Correct Answer: Its high electronegativity

Explanation:

Concept/Approach
Fluorine has the highest electronegativity and very high electron affinity, driving strong oxidizing power. Its small size also contributes, but the principal textbook reason cited is electronegativity. Options (c) and (d) are incorrect: fluorine lacks accessible d-orbitals and the F–F bond is relatively weak, not strong.

Final Answer
Its high electronegativity

← Previous Question Next Question→

More Questions from Chemistry

Carbon allotropy (materials science): Which is the hardest allotropic form of carbon known for extreme hardness and abrasion resistance? Identify the correct carbon allotrope noted for its tetrahedral network and highest Mohs hardness. Choose the correct option.
Human physiology (nutrition): What is the principal physiological role of common salt (sodium chloride) in the diet related to digestion? Consider the function of chloride ions in gastric juice formation and normal digestive processes. Choose the correct option.
Industrial chemistry (vanaspati): Which gas is used to manufacture vanaspati (hydrogenated vegetable oil) from vegetable oils? Identify the gaseous reactant used during catalytic hydrogenation of unsaturated oils. Choose the correct option.
History of chemistry (classification of elements): Newlands, Mendeleev, and Meyer are associated with which foundational development? Recognize the contribution of these scientists to organizing elements and predicting properties. Choose the correct option.
Natural products chemistry (essential oils): The key flavor constituent of cardamom oil is which compound? Identify the predominant component responsible for the characteristic aroma and flavor of cardamom. Choose the correct option.
Chemical bonding (valency): What is the maximum number of covalent bonds nitrogen can form? Consider valence-shell capacity for nitrogen (period 2) and typical compounds like ammonium. Choose the correct option.
Mole concept (Avogadro application): How many water molecules are present in a drop of water of volume 0.0018 mL at room temperature? Use density ≈ 1 g/mL and molar mass of water = 18 g/mol for the calculation. Choose the correct value.
Atmospheric science (ozone layer): Which gas in the stratosphere filters the sun's ultraviolet radiation and protects living organisms from radiation damage? Identify the protective stratospheric constituent. Choose the correct option.
Atomic structure (nucleus): The nucleus of an atom is composed of which fundamental particles? Recall the composition of the atomic nucleus versus the electron cloud. Choose the correct option.
Industrial catalysis (hydrogenation): Which metal is commonly used as a catalyst in the hydrogenation of oils to fats? Identify the standard heterogeneous catalyst employed in edible oil hydrogenation. Choose the correct option.

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!

Join Discussion