Question

Give reason why carbon forms compounds mainly by covalent bond. Explain in brief two main reasons for carbon forming a large number of compounds. Why does carbon form strong bonds with most other elements ?

Answer 1

The carbon atom is very small due to which its outermost electrons are strongly held by the nucleus. So it is not possible to remove 4 electrons nor it is possible to gain 4 electrons(atomic no-6). since carbon atoms achieve the inert gas electron arrangement only by sharing of electrons.therefore it forms covalent bonds.

The reason for forming large no compounds:-
1) the property of catenation (the ability combine with other atoms)
2) due to its valency 4

hope this satisfied u....

Answer 2

A covalent bond is formed when an atom shares a pair of electron with another atom.

Reason: Carbon has 4 electrons in its outer shell and in order to complete its octate, it has to take 4 electrons or donate whereas it shares its 4 electrons with another atom with the same conditions and make 4 covalent bonds.

This property of carbon is the only reason behind its ability of formation of long chains. In fact a carbon atom can join with more than one carbon atom to form double, triple covalent bonds. Similarly, it can form bonds with other elements as well due to the presence of 4 free electrons in its outer shell.