Question

Define catenation. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Answer 1

Explanation:

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→ What is catenation ?

Catenation can be defined as the self-linking of atoms of an element to form chains and rings. This definition can be extended to include the formation of layers like two-dimensional catenation and space lattices like three-dimensional catenation.

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→ Examples of Catenation :

The most common examples of catenation or elements that exhibit catenation are :

• Carbon
• Silicon
• Sulfur
• Boron

Catenation occurs most readily in carbon, forming covalent bonds to form longer chains and structures with other carbon atoms. This is why the vast number of organic compounds are found in nature. Carbon is best known for its catenation properties, with the analysis of catenated carbon structures in organic chemistry.

Carbon is by no means the only element capable of forming such catenae, however, and several other main group elements are capable of forming a wide range of catenae, including silicon, sulfur, and boron

Answer 2

Answer:

The large number of organic compounds is due to the ability of carbon atom to form long chains with other carbon atoms through the sharing of electrons. This unique property of carbon is known as catenation.

Carbon atoms can form long chains by sharing their valence electrons with other carbon atoms.