New definition of electronegativity fixes flaws left by Linus Pauling

Researchers in Russia have modified the formula for the fundamental concept of electronegativity, making it more useful for predicting other aspects of chemistry. Artem Oganov and Christian Tantardini from Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, made a simple-looking change to the equation devised by chemistry giant Linus Pauling. The new formula aligns better with whether reactions release or absorb energy, and avoids strange predictions that the original made for metal-containing modules.