Question

The number and type of bonds between two carbon atoms in calcium carbide are :

• A. One sigma, one pi
• B. One sigma, two pi
• C. Two sigma, one pi
• D. Two sigma, two pi

Answer 1

The correct option is B One sigma, two pi

Calcium carbide $\left(Ca{C}_2\right)$ is an ionic compound $\left(C{a}^{2+}{C}_2^{2-}\right)$ having anion $C_2^{2-}$. The calcium atom is bonded to the two carbon atoms through ionic bonding $[:C\equiv C:{]}^{2-}$. It has one sigma and two pi bonds.