Method for determining the electronegativity of bound atoms of chemical elements with a small atomic number.

This article focuses on generalizing the classical James and Brindley approach to calculate the electron shielding parameter and electronegativity for atoms in bound states using x-ray scattering data. It demonstrates that for elements with atomic number Z < 10, the effective charge \( Z^* = Z - s \), where \( s \) is the screening parameter, can be determined by fitting the ratio of coherent to incoherent scattering intensities, enabling calculation of electronegativity changes in various chemical environments. The study analyzes experimental and theoretical values of \( Z^* \) and electronegativity for lithium, boron, carbon, oxygen, and fluorine in different compounds, showing that electronegativity varies with chemical bonding and atomic environment, consistent with Pauling’s concept. The findings suggest that this method provides a quantitative tool for assessing chemical activity changes in light elements, with potential applications in studying biological systems.