Question

2. What are three characteristics of carbon that contribute to the diversity of organic compounds?

Answer 1

Catenation:

The property of self linkage among identical atoms to form long chain compounds is known as catenation. Carbon exhibits maximum catenation, when compared to elements like sulphur and silicon, due to strong carbon-carbon bonds and tetra valency. Due to this catenation, carbon atoms can form various types of straight chains, branched chains and ring structures.

Formation of multiple bonds:

Carbon atoms are capable of forming multiple bonds with other carbon atoms.

Hydrocarbons:

All the carbon compounds which contain just carbon and hydrogen are called hydrocarbons.

isomerism arises from the difference in the structure of carbon chain which forms the nucleus of the molecule. It is, therefore, named as chain, nuclear isomerism or Skeletal isomerism. For example, there are known three pentanes which have the same molecular formula.