Question

Which shows maximum catenation property?

• A. Te
• B. Se
• C. C
• D. O

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

C

Properties of catenation is shown by C, S, Si, P etc.. but this tendency of catenation is maximum in C.This is due to small size of C. Smaller the atom, more stronger will be the tendency of catenation.
Carbon shows catenation to a maximum extent because of its electronic configuration and tendency to form strong covalent bonds.The bond energy of C-C bond is greater than N-N bond and thus catenation in nitrogen is restricted to 2 or 3 nitrogen atoms.