### Properties of Carbon Atoms **Question:** Which of the following is a property of carbon atoms? **Options:** 1. **They readily give up two electrons to become stable.** 2. **They can form covalent bonds with other atoms.** 3. **They have six valence electrons.** 4. **They are chemically inert.** **Explanation:** Carbon atoms have unique properties that make them essential for the structure and function of all known living things. Understanding these properties can help elucidate why carbon is such a fundamental element in biology and chemistry. 1. **They readily give up two electrons to become stable:** This statement is not accurate. Carbon does not readily give up electrons but instead forms stable bonds by sharing electrons. 2. **They can form covalent bonds with other atoms:** **This statement is true.** Carbon atoms have four valence electrons, allowing them to form up to four covalent bonds with other atoms to achieve a full outer shell. This property is fundamental in the formation of complex organic molecules. 3. **They have six valence electrons:** This statement is incorrect. Carbon atoms have four valence electrons, not six. 4. **They are chemically inert:** This statement is incorrect. Carbon is not chemically inert; it actively forms various stable bonds with different elements, forming an incredibly diverse array of compounds. ### Correct Answer: - **They can form covalent bonds with other atoms.**
### Properties of Carbon Atoms **Question:** Which of the following is a property of carbon atoms? **Options:** 1. **They readily give up two electrons to become stable.** 2. **They can form covalent bonds with other atoms.** 3. **They have six valence electrons.** 4. **They are chemically inert.** **Explanation:** Carbon atoms have unique properties that make them essential for the structure and function of all known living things. Understanding these properties can help elucidate why carbon is such a fundamental element in biology and chemistry. 1. **They readily give up two electrons to become stable:** This statement is not accurate. Carbon does not readily give up electrons but instead forms stable bonds by sharing electrons. 2. **They can form covalent bonds with other atoms:** **This statement is true.** Carbon atoms have four valence electrons, allowing them to form up to four covalent bonds with other atoms to achieve a full outer shell. This property is fundamental in the formation of complex organic molecules. 3. **They have six valence electrons:** This statement is incorrect. Carbon atoms have four valence electrons, not six. 4. **They are chemically inert:** This statement is incorrect. Carbon is not chemically inert; it actively forms various stable bonds with different elements, forming an incredibly diverse array of compounds. ### Correct Answer: - **They can form covalent bonds with other atoms.**
Chemistry
10th Edition
ISBN:9781305957404
Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Publisher:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
Chapter1: Chemical Foundations
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: Define and explain the differences between the following terms. a. law and theory b. theory and...
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