How many bonds can one carbon atom form?A.TwoB.OneC.FourD.ThreeSUBMITarrow_backPREVIOUS

Problem Breakdown

1. Identify the bonding capacity of a carbon atom based on its electronic configuration and valence electrons.
2. Review the bonding characteristics of carbon in organic compounds.

Relevant Concepts

• Carbon has an atomic number of 6, with an electronic configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p².
• Carbon has 4 electrons in its outer shell (valence shell), which allows it to form bonds.

Analysis and Detail

1. Valence Electrons: Carbon has 4 valence electrons, which means it can form 4 covalent bonds with other atoms by sharing these electrons.
2. Types of Bonds: Carbon can form single, double, and triple bonds depending on the number of electrons shared between atoms.

Verify and Summarize

• Since carbon has 4 valence electrons, it can readily form 4 covalent bonds to achieve a full outer shell (octet rule).
• This explains why carbon is a fundamental element in organic chemistry, forming various complex molecules.

Final Answer

C. Four