To determine which element attracts electrons most strongly in chemical bonds, we need to consider the concept of electronegativity. Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons.
Here are the electronegativity values for the given elements:
- Carbon (C): 2.5
- Nitrogen (N): 3.0
- Potassium (K): 0.8
- Calcium (Ca): 1.0
Electronegativity increases across a period from left to right in the periodic table and decreases down a group from top to bottom.
1. Carbon (C):
- Electronegativity: 2.5
- Located in group 14 (4A), period 2.
2. Nitrogen (N):
- Electronegativity: 3.0
- Located in group 15 (5A), period 2.
3. Potassium (K):
- Electronegativity: 0.8
- Located in group 1 (1A), period 4.
4. Calcium (Ca):
- Electronegativity: 1.0
- Located in group 2 (2A), period 4.
Comparing these electronegativity values, nitrogen (N) has the highest value of 3.0. Therefore, nitrogen (N) attracts electrons most strongly in chemical bonds.
Answer:
O nitrogen (N)