Question

Which general trend is found in Period 3 as the elements are considered in order of increasing atomic number?(1) increasing atomic radius (2) increasing electronegativity

(3) decreasing atomic mass (4) decreasing first ionization energy

Answer 1

(2) increasing electronegativity

Answer 2

The correct answer is 2.

2 is correct because the number of charges on the nucleus increases, causing a stronger attraction for the bonding of electrons (and thus greater electronegativity).
1 is incorrect because the atomic radius decreases.
3 is incorrect because the atomic mass increases.