Question

Give reason why carbon can neither form C⁴⁺ cations nor C^4- anions, but forms covalent compounds are bad conductors of electricity and have low melting and boiling points?

Answer 1

(a) Carbon cannot form C⁴⁺ cation because of removal of 4 elections from a carbon atom would require a large amount of energy.

(b) Carbon cannot form C^4- anion because it would be difficult for the nucleus with 6 protons to hold on to 10 electrons.

(c) Hence, carbon atoms share electrons forming covalent compounds.

(d) Covalent compounds do not form ions/ charged particles and therefore do not conduct electricity.

(e) Inter molecular forces of attraction are weak, hence low melting and boiling points.