Chapter 4: Carbon and Its Compounds

Chapter 4: Carbon and Its Compounds Class X Science Properties of Carbon Basis of Life: Organic compounds are made up of carbon and form the basis of life of living organisms. Versatile Nature: Carbon is a versatile element; it forms a large variety of compounds because of its tetravalency and the property of catenation . Electronic Configuration: Carbon (Atomic No. 6) has electronic configuration 2, 4. Valency is 4. Bonding: Carbon forms covalent bonds by sharing electrons. It forms bonds with oxygen, sulphur, nitrogen, and chlorine. Covalent Bond The chemical bond formed by the sharing of electrons from two atoms is known as a covalent bond. Properties: Strong bonds within the molecule, but small intermolecular forces. Low melting and boiling points. Poor conductors of electricity (no charged particles formed). Unique Features of Carbon Tetravalency: Carbon has 4 valence electrons. It can bond with four other atoms of carbon or atoms of other monovalent elements. Catenation: The property of elemen…