Chapter 20.1, Problem 1RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The unusual bonding of carbon atoms is to be explained.

Concept Introduction: The are two main properties behind the bonding of carbon atoms, catenation and tetravalency.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

The bonding of carbon atoms is unusual compared to other elements due to the properties of catenation and tetravalency. A carbon atom has a high catenation tendency which allows it to form single bonds between many carbon atoms. Carbon has a valency of four which allows a single carbon atom to link with a maximum of 4 carbon atoms which leads to a large network of carbon atoms and compounds.

Explanation of Solution

The reason behind the high catenation property of carbon is its electronic configuration with 4 electrons in valence shell (tetravalency) that needs four more electrons to complete the octet and high bond energy of C-C linkage which allows stable bond formation in long-chain compounds. In other atoms, these properties are not shown to such a large extent and they cannot form very long same atom chains.