Question

Why silicon shows some catenation property? explain

Answer 1

The extent of catenation depends on the atom – atom bond energy.More is the bond energy, more is the catenation. Now, the bond energy of C-C bond (348 kJ/mol) is more than Si-Si bond (225 kJ/mol).Thus, silicon shows catenation but to a small extent (form chains containing not more than 6 silicon atoms)