Question

An element which is an essential constituent of all organic compounds belongs to:

• A. Group 1
• B. Group 14
• C. Group 15
• D. Group 16

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Group 14

The explanation for the correct option:

(B) Group 14:

Step-1: Identify the element which is an essential constituent of all organic compounds

• Organic compounds are the compounds that were thought to be derived as a part of the natural processes of living organisms.
• These compounds almost always have Carbon$\left(\mathrm{C}\right)$ as one of the main elements along with some other elements.

Step-2: Find the position of the element identified i.e.; Carbon in the modern periodic table

• The modern periodic table helps to find the position of the elements with the help of groups and periods.
• Groups are the vertical columns and Carbon is situated in group 14.
• To count the group of Carbon, begin counting groups from the extreme left corner with Hydrogen, $\left(\mathrm{H}\right)$ and move towards the right.

The explanation for the incorrect options:

(A) Group 1: Group 1 consists of alkali metals like Sodium $\left(\mathrm{Na}\right)$, Potassium $\left(\mathrm{K}\right)$, etc. This group does not contain the essential constituent of all organic compounds i.e.; carbon.

(C) Group 15: Group 15 consists of elements like Nitrogen $\left(\mathrm{N}\right)$, Phosphorous $\left(\mathrm{P}\right)$, etc. This group does not contain the essential constituent of all organic compounds i.e.; carbon.

(D) Group 16: Group -16 is the Oxygen family which consists of elements like Oxygen $\left(\mathrm{O}\right)$, Sulphur $\left(\mathrm{S}\right)$, etc. This group does not contain the essential constituent of all organic compounds i.e.; carbon.

Hence, option (B) is correct.