Methane (CH₄) is formed by carbon sharing its four valence electrons with four hydrogen atoms, forming covalent bonds. The molecule lacks charged particles, contributing to its low melting and boiling points.
Describe the formation of methane (CH₄) and the type of bonds present between carbon and hydrogen atoms.
Share
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.