Introduction

In the previous chapters, we have learned about the properties of ionic compounds, which have high melting and boiling points and conduct electricity in solution or in the molten state due to the presence of ions. In contrast, most carbon compounds have low melting and boiling points and are poor conductors of electricity. This indicates that the nature of bonding in carbon compounds differs significantly from that in ionic compounds.

Electronic Configuration of Carbon

Atomic Number and Electron Distribution

The atomic number of carbon is 6.

Electron distribution: 2 electrons in the K shell and 4 electrons in the L shell.

Valence electrons: 4 electrons in the outermost shell.

Reactivity and Noble Gas Configuration