Chapter 25, Problem 1QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reasons for the ability of carbon to form so many compounds areto be explained.

Concept introduction:

Carbon forms a million compounds thatare more in comparison to any other element of the periodic table. Carbon has features liketetracovalencythatinvolvesformation of four covalent bonds and the property of catenation through sigma as well as pi bonds.

Answer to Problem 1QP

Solution: The ability of carbon to form many compounds is due to its two properties. Tetraco-valency, the first property, means formation of four covalent bonds in different directions. Catenation, the second property, means self-linking property in which single (sigma) as well as multiple (pi) bonds can be formed betweentwo carbon atoms.

Explanation of Solution

The reasons for formation of so many compounds by carbon are as follows:

Carbon can form four covalent bonds because it has electronicconfiguration $\left[\text{He}\right]{\text{2s}}^{\text{2}}{\text{2p}}^{\text{2}}$. It cannot form ions by gaining or losing four electrons as it is not favorable to any other atom. So, the only choice left is to share the electrons through covalent bonds. It shares all four of its electrons resulting in the formation of four covalent bonds in different directions.

Carbon has a small atomic radius thatprovides the possibility of forming bonds with another carbon atom. The bonds can be single (sigma bond) or multiple (pi) bonds. Carbon can undergo hybridizations like ${\text{sp}}^{\text{3}}{\text{, sp}}^{\text{2}}\text{, and sp}$ to form single, double, and triple bonds,respectively, between carbon atoms.

Conclusion

The ability of a carbon atom to form so many compounds is due to tetracovalency and catenation.