The central atom in a molecule is the atom to which other atoms are bonded, often determining the molecule's geometry and properties. It is usually the atom with the highest bonding capacity or the least electronegative element in the compound.

Central Atom

central atom in a molecule

molecule's geometry

Molecule's properties

atom with the highest bonding capacity

least electronegative element

Bonding capacity refers to the maximum amount of bonds that an atom can form with other atoms, determined by the number of electrons available for bonding in its outer shell. This concept is crucial in understanding molecular structures and chemical reactivity, as it dictates how atoms combine to form molecules and compounds.

bonding capacity

Electronegativity is a measure of an atom's ability to attract and hold onto electrons within a chemical bond, influencing bond polarity and molecular interactions. It varies across the periodic table, generally increasing from left to right and decreasing down a group, with fluorine being the most electronegative element.

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