Chapter 6, Problem 10A

Summary Introduction

To write:

The factor determines that an oxygen atom can form two covalent bonds while a carbon atom can form four.

Introduction:

Covalent bond forms by the sharing of an electron pair between two atoms. These electrons are simultaneously attracted by the two atomic nuclei. A covalent bond, also known as a molecular bond, is a chemical bond.

Explanation of Solution

The covalent bond formation of elements is determined by the number of electrons in its outermost energy level. Two covalent bonds form between two oxygen atoms because oxygen requires two shared electrons to fill its outermost shell. Carbon has 4 electrons in its outermost shell. Therefore, carbon completes its octet by sharing its 4 electrons with other atoms and forms four covalent bonds.

Conclusion

Thus, the numbers of covalent bond of oxygen and carbon atoms are different.