Question

Increasing order of electronegativity of the following elements is?
A. $C < N < Si < P$
B. $N < Si < C < P$
C. $Si < P < C < N$
D. $P < Si < N < C$

Answer 1

To solve this question, we must first understand the different trends observed in the periodic table with respect to the increase in the electronegative character of the elements in the periodic table. Finally we must arrange the given elements in an order that is in accordance with the given trends and derive the final answer.

Complete step by step answer:
Before we move forward with the solution of this question, we must understand some basic concepts.
Electronegativity: electronegativity of an atom can be defined as the ability of an atom to attract electrons towards itself. The strength of the electronegative character of an element depends on the size of the atom as well as the position of the element in the periodic table.
The trends with respect to the strength of the electronegative character of any given element in the periodic table are as follows:
As we move from left to right in the periodic table, the atomic size of the atom goes on decreasing. This is because more and more electrons are added to the same valence shell. This causes the greater nuclear charge attracting more and more electrons. This results in the increase in net nuclear force of attraction as we move from left to right in the period.
Another factor that must be taken into consideration is that once the valence orbital is half filled, beyond that the number of half - filled orbitals goes on decreasing. This factor also contributes to the atoms wanting to accept more electrons to satisfy their octet structure.
All these factors contribute to the increase in the electronegative character as we move form left to right in a period.
Similarly, as we move from top to down in a group, the atomic size increases, and so does the shielding effect. This results in the reduction of the electronegative character of the element.
Keeping all these factors in mind, we can say that the increasing order of electronegativity of the following elements is $Si < P < C < N$

Hence, Option C is the correct option.

Note:
If we abide by the trends observed in the periodic table in regards to the electronegative strength, then we can say that Fluorine is the most electronegative element in the periodic table.