NGSS HS-PS1-1: Patterns & Bonding
Carbon (Group 14) has 4 valence electrons, allowing it to form 4 bonds. Explore how this pattern creates extreme geometries.
Carbon atoms forced into rigid 90-degree angles, creating massive "strain energy" that makes it highly explosive.
Sixty carbon atoms forming a hollow sphere resembling a soccer ball. Extremely stable due to alternating double bonds.
The largest known non-protein molecule (C164H256O68S2Na2). A massive chain of fused oxygen-containing rings.
Carbon bonded into a perfect dodecahedron (C20H20). Synthesizing this took 23 complex chemical steps.
Unknown highly strained molecule. Forms a tight geometric shape. Can you deduce its formula?
Unknown molecule. Contains a highly strained square base.
Look at the Carbon atoms (grey/black spheres) in any of these molecules. Based on its position in Group 14, how many total bonds does each Carbon form?
Analyze the 3D structure to determine the formula. Count the atoms carefully!