Electronegativity measures an atom's ability to attract electrons in a chemical bond.
What does it influence?
It influences molecular structure by determining bond polarity and the distribution of electrons within molecules. Higher electronegativity creates stronger pulls on shared electrons, resulting in polar covalent bonds or even ionic bonding.
This affects molecular geometry, affecting properties like solubility, boiling points, and reactivity. Variations in electronegativity among atoms in a molecule lead to unequal electron distribution, generating dipoles and influencing overall molecular polarity.
Ultimately, electronegativity guides the arrangement of atoms within molecules, dictating their behavior and physical characteristics.