Question

Which of the following has least tendency of catenation?

• A. $C$
• B. $Si$
• C. $Ge$
• D. $Sn$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $Sn$

Catenation is the linkage of atoms of the same element into longer chains. Catenation occurs most readily in carbon, which forms covalent bonds with other carbon atoms to form longer chains and structures.

As we move don the group as the size of the atom increases the catenating (linkage of atoms of the same element into longer chains.) ability of an element decreases. So in the given 4th group elements $Sn$ is having least size.So it has the least tendency of catenation.
Hence option $D$ is correct.