The World of Carbon

Carbon is a unique element. Its ability to form four strong covalent bonds makes it the foundation of all organic compounds, from simple methane to complex DNA.

Types of Bonds

• Single Bonds: In molecules like ethane (\(C_2H_6\)), carbon atoms share one pair of electrons.
• Double and Triple Bonds: Carbon can also make double (as in ethene, \(C_2H_4\)) or triple bonds (as in ethyne, \(C_2H_2\)), increasing the diversity of organic compounds.

Shapes and Structures

• Tetrahedral Geometry: When carbon forms four single bonds, the molecule's shape is tetrahedral, like in methane.
• Planar Geometry: Double bonds create flat, planar molecules, such as in ethene.
• Linear Geometry: Triple bonds make molecules linear, like in acetylene.

Isomerism

Organic molecules can have the same formula but different structures (isomers), leading to unique properties.

Why It Matters

Understanding structure and bonding helps chemists design medicines, materials, and fuels.