3. Which element in the periodic table forms maximum number of compounds ?H O S C

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the elements provided: Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Sulfur (S), Carbon (C).
2. Investigate the bonding characteristics of each element.
3. Determine which of these elements forms the maximum number of compounds.

Relevant Concepts

1. Valency and Bonding: Different elements have different valencies, which influence how many bonds they can form.
2. Hybridization and Types of Compounds: The ability of an element to hybridize can also affect the number of compounds it can partake in.

Analysis and Detail

1. Hydrogen (H): As a diatomic molecule, hydrogen typically forms compounds like H₂O, H₂S, etc. Its capacity to form compounds is limited due to its single bond characteristic.

2. Oxygen (O): Oxygen commonly forms compounds with various elements, especially with metals and nonmetals. It primarily forms oxides and can participate in multiple reactions.

3. Sulfur (S): Sulfur has a more complex chemistry than hydrogen and can form a variety of compounds (e.g., sulfides, thioesters) but is still not as versatile as carbon.

4. Carbon (C): Carbon is known for its ability to form an extensive variety of compounds, including organic compounds, due to its tetravalent nature. Carbon can form single, double, and triple bonds, leading to an immense variety of molecular structures.

Verify and Summarize

Given the bonding capabilities and the various types of compounds formed, we can conclude that while sulfur and oxygen engage in multiple compounds, it is carbon that stands out significantly due to its versatility in forming a vast range of organic and inorganic compounds.

Final Answer

Carbon (C) forms the maximum number of compounds in the periodic table.