<P> Not all atoms attract electrons with the same force . The amount of `` pull '' an atom exerts on its electrons is called its electronegativity . Atoms with high electronegativities -- such as fluorine , oxygen , and nitrogen -- exert a greater pull on electrons than atoms with lower electronegativities such as alkali metals and alkaline earth metals . In a bond , this leads to unequal sharing of electrons between the atoms , as electrons will be drawn closer to the atom with the higher electronegativity . </P>
<P> Not all atoms attract electrons with the same force . The amount of `` pull '' an atom exerts on its electrons is called its electronegativity . Atoms with high electronegativities -- such as fluorine , oxygen , and nitrogen -- exert a greater pull on electrons than atoms with lower electronegativities such as alkali metals and alkaline earth metals . In a bond , this leads to unequal sharing of electrons between the atoms , as electrons will be drawn closer to the atom with the higher electronegativity . </P>
how does oxygen play a role in polarity
how does oxygen play a role in polarity
exert a greater pull on electrons than atoms with lower electronegativities
exert a greater pull on electrons than atoms with lower electronegativities