Chemistry: The Central Science (13th Edition)

Published by Prentice Hall
ISBN 10: 0321910419
ISBN 13: 978-0-32191-041-7

Chapter 8 - Basic Concepts of Chemical Bonding - Exercises - Page 337: 8.60d

Answer

4, 4

Work Step by Step

Carbon has 4 valence electrons since it is in group 4. In order to form a full octet, therefore, it needs to share 4 electrons that are from a different atom. This is accomplished through 4 bonds, where 4 electrons from each atom are shared. Thus, Carbon has 4 valence electrons and makes 4 bonds in compounds.
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