Bonding to carbon atoms
I can describe how each carbon atom can form up to four covalent bonds with up to four non-metal atoms.
Bonding to carbon atoms
I can describe how each carbon atom can form up to four covalent bonds with up to four non-metal atoms.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Carbon atoms will form up to four covalent bonds (as they will fill their outer shell with four more electrons).
- Carbon atoms can combine with other non-metal atoms to make a wide range of molecules, some with chains and rings.
- An organic compound contains two or more elements (including carbon).
- A lot of organic compounds also include hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen.
- Organic compounds can be found both in nature, but also produced synthetically.
Keywords
Octet rule - The tendency for atoms to fill their outer shell to 8 electrons to become stable. This occurs through chemical bonding, and results in the electron configuration of a noble gas.
Covalent bond - The strong electrostatic attraction between a shared pair of electrons and the nuclei of the bonded atoms.
Molecule - A particle consisting of a fixed number of (two or more) non-metal atoms covalently bonded together.
Organic compound - A chemical compound in which one or more atoms of carbon are covalently linked to atoms of other elements, most commonly hydrogen, oxygen, or nitrogen.
Common misconception
Atoms are often anthropomorphised, described as 'wanting' full shells. This implies intent and oversimplifies chemical bonding.
Focus on the tendency of atoms to fill their outer shell to 8 electrons to become stable. Emphasise carbon atoms do this by sharing electrons in covalent bonds.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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