Question

select the statement that correctly describes one of the bulk elements necessary for life. multiple choice hydrogen (h) has two valence electrons and is likely to form ionic bonds. carbon (c) has four valence electrons and is likely to form covalent bonds. nitrogen (n) has six valence electrons and is likely to form ionic bonds. oxygen (o) has five valence electrons and is likely to form covalent bonds.

Explanation:

• Analyze each option:
• Hydrogen (H) has 1 valence electron, not 2, and typically forms covalent bonds (e.g., in H₂ or H₂O), so the first option is wrong.
• Carbon (C) has 4 valence electrons. It tends to form covalent bonds (e.g., in organic compounds) by sharing electrons, which matches the statement.
• Nitrogen (N) has 5 valence electrons, not 6, and often forms covalent bonds (e.g., in NH₃), so the third option is wrong.
• Oxygen (O) has 6 valence electrons, not 5, and forms covalent bonds (e.g., in O₂ or H₂O), so the fourth option is wrong.

Answer:

Carbon (C) has four valence electrons and is likely to form covalent bonds.