1. In the electrolytic reduction of metals like sodium, magnesium, and calcium, the metals are deposited at the cathode. The metal cations in their molten or dissolved state gain electrons at the cathode and are reduced to form solid metal. For example, in the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, soRead more

    In the electrolytic reduction of metals like sodium, magnesium, and calcium, the metals are deposited at the cathode. The metal cations in their molten or dissolved state gain electrons at the cathode and are reduced to form solid metal. For example, in the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, sodium metal is deposited at the cathode:
    2Na⁺ + 2e⁻ → 2Na
    At the anode, negative ions such as chloride (Cl⁻) are oxidized. In the case of sodium chloride, chlorine gas (Cl₂) is liberated at the anode:
    2Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e⁻
    This process allows for the extraction of the metal from its molten or dissolved salt.

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  2. Methane (CH₄) is formed through covalent bonding between carbon and hydrogen. Carbon, tetravalent with four valence electrons, shares each electron with a hydrogen atom, creating four single covalent bonds. Methane molecules consist of a central carbon atom surrounded by four hydrogen atoms, each coRead more

    Methane (CH₄) is formed through covalent bonding between carbon and hydrogen. Carbon, tetravalent with four valence electrons, shares each electron with a hydrogen atom, creating four single covalent bonds. Methane molecules consist of a central carbon atom surrounded by four hydrogen atoms, each connected by a single bond. The electron-dot structure reveals each H atom sharing one valence electron with C. The resulting tetrahedral molecular geometry and the single covalent bonds contribute to methane’s stability. These bonds are characterized by the sharing of electrons between carbon and hydrogen, forming a simple yet crucial compound in organic chemistry and energy production.

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  3. Covalently bonded molecules like ammonia and methane have low melting and boiling points due to weak intermolecular forces. In these compounds, molecules are held together by comparatively weaker van der Waals forces or hydrogen bonding, requiring less energy for state changes. Furthermore, covalentRead more

    Covalently bonded molecules like ammonia and methane have low melting and boiling points due to weak intermolecular forces. In these compounds, molecules are held together by comparatively weaker van der Waals forces or hydrogen bonding, requiring less energy for state changes. Furthermore, covalent compounds are generally poor conductors of electricity because they lack free ions. In covalent bonds, electrons are shared rather than transferred, resulting in the absence of charged particles that can carry an electric current. The combination of weak intermolecular forces and the absence of free ions contributes to the low melting and boiling points and poor conductivity in covalently bonded molecules.

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  4. The property of carbon that enables it to form a vast number of compounds is catenation, which is the ability of carbon atoms to form long chains, branched structures, or rings by bonding with other carbon atoms. This extensive catenation arises from the strength and stability of the carbon-carbon bRead more

    The property of carbon that enables it to form a vast number of compounds is catenation, which is the ability of carbon atoms to form long chains, branched structures, or rings by bonding with other carbon atoms. This extensive catenation arises from the strength and stability of the carbon-carbon bond. Carbon atoms can form strong single, double, or triple bonds, resulting in diverse and complex molecules. Catenation is crucial in organic chemistry, as it allows for the creation of a wide array of compounds, contributing to the richness and diversity of carbon-based molecules in nature and the vast field of organic chemistry.

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  5. Saturated and unsaturated compounds differ in the nature of carbon-carbon bonds. Saturated compounds contain only single bonds between carbon atoms, resulting in each carbon atom being saturated with the maximum number of hydrogen atoms. These compounds are typically alkanes and exhibit higher stabiRead more

    Saturated and unsaturated compounds differ in the nature of carbon-carbon bonds. Saturated compounds contain only single bonds between carbon atoms, resulting in each carbon atom being saturated with the maximum number of hydrogen atoms. These compounds are typically alkanes and exhibit higher stability. In contrast, unsaturated compounds have double or triple bonds between carbon atoms, leading to a deficiency in hydrogen atoms. Unsaturated compounds include alkenes and alkynes and are more reactive due to the presence of pi bonds. The distinction between saturated and unsaturated compounds is crucial in understanding the reactivity and properties of various carbon-based molecules.

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