Question 1

Which property of carbon most directly allows it to form large, complex molecules essential for life?

Accepted Answer

Its ability to form covalent bonds with up to four other atoms

Question 2

What is the molecular geometry of methane ($$CH_4$$), and why does it occur?

Accepted Answer

Tetrahedral, because carbon forms four single covalent bonds

Question 3

Hydrocarbons are a major component of petroleum. Which of the following best explains why hydrocarbons are insoluble in water?

Accepted Answer

They are composed mostly of nonpolar covalent bonds between carbon and hydrogen

Question 4

Which statement about carbon skeletons is correct?

Accepted Answer

They may be straight, branched, or arranged in rings

Question 5

A molecule with the formula $$C_2H_4$$ has what type of bond between its carbon atoms?

Accepted Answer

Double bond

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the energy released when hydrocarbons are metabolized in living organisms?

Accepted Answer

Hydrocarbons release large amounts of energy due to the breaking of nonpolar covalent bonds

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a reason why carbon is considered the backbone of organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

Carbon is highly reactive and forms unstable molecules

Question 8

Which of the following statements about hydrocarbons is FALSE?

Accepted Answer

Hydrocarbons are highly soluble in water due to their polar nature

Question 9

A carbon atom has 6 electrons. How many electrons are in its valence shell, and how does this affect its bonding behavior?

Accepted Answer

4 electrons; carbon tends to form four covalent bonds to complete its octet

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why carbon can form such a wide variety of molecules?

Accepted Answer

Carbon can form single, double, and triple covalent bonds with other atoms

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct real-world application of the properties of hydrocarbons?

Accepted Answer

Hydrocarbons are used as a major energy source in gasoline because their combustion releases large amounts of energy

Question 12

Which of the following molecules would be expected to have a planar geometry?

Accepted Answer

$$C_2H_2 ($$ethyne)

Question 13

Which statement best describes the difference between a single, double, and triple bond in carbon compounds?

Accepted Answer

Single bonds involve one shared electron pair, double bonds involve two, and triple bonds involve three shared pairs between two carbons

Question 14

Which of the following is a consequence of the branching ability of carbon atoms?

Accepted Answer

Carbon can form large, complex molecules with diverse shapes and functions

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of carbon in the molecular diversity of life?

Accepted Answer

Carbon's ability to form four covalent bonds allows for the construction of a wide variety of organic molecules

Carbon & the Molecular Diversity of Life – Study Notes (General Biology, Chapter 3)

Study Guide - Practice Questions