The electronic configuration of an atom describes the distribution of electrons in its atomic orbitals. For competitive exams, understanding the basic shell model (Bohr-Bury rules) is crucial. The atomic number tells us the number of protons and, in a neutral atom, the number of electrons.
B) 2, 4 — This correctly represents the distribution of 6 electrons in the first two shells (K and L) according to the Bohr-Bury rules.
The question asks why carbon primarily forms covalent bonds. This relates to carbon's electronic configuration and the energy required for it to achieve a stable octet configuration by either losing or gaining electrons to form ionic bonds.
D) Because losing or gaining 4 electrons would require a very large amount of energy. This is the fundamental reason. The energy required to either remove four electrons (to form \(C^{4+}\)) or add four electrons (to form \(C^{4-}\)) is prohibitively high, making ionic bond formation energetically unfavorable for carbon. Therefore, it prefers to share electrons to form covalent bonds.
The question asks for the specific property of carbon atoms that allows them to link with each other to form various structures like long chains, branched chains, or rings. We need to identify the correct term from the given options that describes this unique characteristic of carbon.
Correct Option: C) Catenation — This is the unique property of carbon atoms to form strong covalent bonds with other carbon atoms, leading to the formation of long chains, branched chains, or cyclic structures. This property is responsible for the vast number of organic compounds.
The question asks to identify the property of carbon, in addition to catenation, that contributes to the vast number of carbon compounds. We need to recall the unique characteristics of carbon that enable it to form diverse and numerous compounds.
Correct Option: D) Its tetravalency. Carbon's ability to form four strong covalent bonds (tetravalency), combined with its strong tendency to bond with other carbon atoms (catenation), allows for the formation of an exceptionally large number of diverse organic compounds.
This question tests the fundamental definition of a single covalent bond. A covalent bond is formed when atoms share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, typically an octet (eight valence electrons) or a duet (two valence electrons for hydrogen and helium).
C) Two electrons — A single covalent bond is formed by the sharing of one pair of electrons, which means a total of two electrons are shared between the two atoms.
The question asks to identify which of the given options is NOT an allotrope of carbon. Allotropes are different structural forms of the same element. We need to examine each option to determine its chemical composition.
Correct Option: A) Quartz is composed of silicon dioxide (\(\text{SiO}_2\)), not pure carbon. Therefore, it is not an allotrope of carbon.