Question

question 5
fill in the blanks below to construct an explanation that states how various elements combine with carbon to form molecules that form the basis for life on earth.
carbon can bond with _a_ (1, 2, or 4) atoms.
oxygen can bond with _b_ (1, 2, or 4) atoms.
hydrogen can bond with _c_ (1, 2, or 4) atoms.
therefore, _d_ is able to form the largest molecules.
answers can be used more than once or not at all.
column a

1. carbon can bond with _(a)_ (1, 2, or 4) atoms.
2. oxygen can bond with _(b)_ (1, 2, or 4) atoms.
3. hydrogen can bond with _(c)_ (1, 2, or 4) atoms.
4. therefore, _(d)_ can form the largest molecules.

column b
a. 4
b. carbon
c. hydrogen
d. 1
e. oxygen
f. 2

Explanation:

Carbon has 4 valence electrons and can form 4 covalent bonds. Oxygen has 6 valence electrons and can form 2 covalent bonds. Hydrogen has 1 valence electron and can form 1 covalent bond. Since carbon can form bonds with multiple atoms in various ways, it can form large and complex molecules.

Answer:

1. a
2. f
3. d
4. b