Why doesn't chlorine form hydrogen bonds even though it is more electronegative than nitrogen?

Chlorine has a higher electronegativity, but as it has a large atomic radius the electron density is spread out over a large area. This means that the electron density is too low to form proper hydrogen bonds, and will only be attracted via dipole-dipole attraction.

CL
Answered by Callum L. Chemistry tutor

16749 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain why chlorine has a lower boiling point than Bromine. (2 marks)


How can you tell if a reaction is endothermic or exothermic? Describe a way of determining if a reaction is exothermic or endothermic using simple laboratory equipment.


Explain how a catalyst works to increase the rate of reaction


Why are teachers now saying electrons are in orbitals? I thought they moved around shells?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning