How many covalent bonds can a typical carbon atom form?

A. One
B. Two
C. Three
D. Four

Question

How many covalent bonds can a typical carbon atom form?

A. One
B. Two
C. Three
D. Four

CramX · Accepted Answer

Step 1: I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified LaTeX and formatting guidelines:. Step 2: : Understand Carbon's Electron Configuration. Carbon has an atomic number of 6, which means it has 6 electrons. Step 3: : Analyze Valence Electrons. In the outermost shell (second shell), carbon has: Total valence electrons = 4 Step 4: : Determine Bonding Capacity. Carbon can share these 4 valence electrons to form covalent bonds. By sharing electrons, carbon can achieve a stable octet (8 electrons in its outer shell). Step 5: : Confirm Number of Possible Bonds. Since carbon has 4 valence electrons, it can form 4 covalent bonds to complete its outer shell. Final Answer: Four Explanation: A typical carbon atom can form four covalent bonds, which is why carbon is so versatile in forming complex molecules like those found in organic chemistry.

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QuestionChemistry

Answer

Full Solution Locked

Step 1:
I'll solve this problem step by step, following the specified LaTeX and formatting guidelines:

Step 2:
: Understand Carbon's Electron Configuration

Step 3:
: Analyze Valence Electrons

Final Answer

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