Explanation:
Carbon is a non-metal that belongs to group 14. Atomic number of carbon is 6 and its electronic distribution is 2, 4.
So, in order to complete its octet it always shares its valence electrons with other atoms. Therefore, a carbon atom always leads to the formation of covalent compounds through covalent bonding.
A covalent bonding is the bonding occurring due to sharing of electrons between the combining atoms.
Being a non-metal and since it forms covalent bonds only, carbon is non-polar in nature. Hence, generally it is present in non-electrolytes. Also, it is insoluble in water (polar solvent).
It has low melting point and due to its ability of sharing valence electrons it forms a variety of compounds.
Thus, we can conclude that characteristics of carbon are as follows.
1. covalent bonding
3. generally in non-electrolytes
.
4. low melting point
6. forms a variety of compounds
