Carbon has the unique ability to form long chains by bonding with other carbon atoms. This property of self-linking in carbon is known as:
Correct answer: D. Catenation
- A. Condensation
- B. Polymerization
- C. Cyclization
- D. Catenation
Explanation
Catenation is the ability of an element to bond with itself to form long chains or rings. Carbon has a very strong tendency to catenate due to the strength and versatility of its covalent bonds. Carbon atoms can form multiple bonds with each other to create long chains, branched chains, and rings. This ability of carbon to form long chains is the basis of organic chemistry, where the vast majority of compounds are based on carbon chains or rings.
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About Classification of Organic Compounds
Organic compounds are classified by carbon skeleton into open-chain, branched-chain and cyclic compounds, including homocyclic and heterocyclic types. The classification also uses functional groups to distinguish hydrocarbons, halo compounds, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and their derivatives, which is different from naming compounds by IUPAC rules.
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