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QuestionChemistry

"How many bonds can a carbon atom form with other atoms? A. three B. six C. four D. two"
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Step 1:
I'll solve this problem step by step:

Step 2:
: Understand Carbon's Electron Configuration

1s^{2} 2s^{2} 2p^{2}
Carbon is located in Group 14 (4A) of the periodic table. Its atomic number is 6, which means it has 6 electrons. In its ground state electron configuration, carbon has:

Step 3:
: Analyze Electron Valence

- Carbon has 4 valence electrons in its outer shell (2s and 2p orbitals) - These 4 valence electrons allow carbon to form 4 covalent bonds

Step 4:
: Understand Bonding Capability

- Each valence electron can be shared to create a single bond - Carbon can form single, double, or triple bonds - The total number of bonds is always 4

Step 5:
: Verify Bonding Potential

- Carbon can bond with hydrogen (forming hydrocarbons) - It can bond with other carbon atoms - It can bond with other elements like oxygen, nitrogen, etc.

Final Answer

Explanation: A carbon atom can form four bonds with other atoms due to its electron configuration and valence electron structure.