Question

Define the following terms with examples: Tetravalent

Answer 1

Tetravalent:

When a non-metal atom share four electrons from its outermost shell with other atoms in order to acquire eight electrons in its outermost shell its valency becomes four. Such atoms having valency four are known as tetravalent.

Example:

Carbon $\mathbf{\left(}\mathbf{C}\mathbf{\right)}$:

1. Carbon has atomic number $6$. Thus, the electronic configuration of Carbon is $(2,4)$.
2. Carbon atom shares four electrons from its outermost shell with other atoms in order to acquire eight electrons in its outermost shell.
3. Thus, valency of Carbon is $4$ and it is known as tetravalent.