Question

which element exhibits the property of
catenation to the maximum and why?
​

Answer 1

Answer:

Carbon

Explanation:

Carbon exhibits the property of catenation due to strong C-C bond.

Answer 2

Answer:

Carbon in the entire periodic table is the element which shows maximum catenation property.

By maximum we mean long chain of carbon compounds are easily formed.

The reason is the high Carbon-carbon bond enthalpy and the small size of carbon atom tjat enables better molecular orbital overlapping and stronger bond formation.

However, also Silicon, Germanium, Lead and Tin show catenation, but they're very poor when compared to carbon.

The trend for catenation follows directly as the covalent radius of the atoms

Carbon > Silicon > Germanium > Tin > Lead