How Many Bonds Can Carbon Form?
Answer – Carbon can form up to four covalent bonds simultaneously.
Explanation:
The atomic number of carbon is 6. This means that it has six protons and six electrons. Of these, two electrons fit in the innermost electron shell, while the remaining four occupy the valence shell. In order to achieve an octet state (eight electrons in the valence shell), carbon needs four more electrons. This requirement enables carbon to form up to four (covalent) bonds simultaneously.
This ability of the carbon atom is significant in the formation of stable organic molecules, nearly all of which contain carbon.
