In a Lewis dot structure for methane (CH_4), how many single covalent bonds are present between the carbon atom and hydrogen atoms?

• A. Three
• B. Four
• C. One
• D. Two

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the central atom in methane (CH_4), which is carbon (C).
2. Recall that carbon has 4 valence electrons and needs 4 more electrons to complete its octet.
3. Each hydrogen atom has 1 valence electron and needs 1 more to complete its duet.
4. In the Lewis dot structure, carbon forms single covalent bonds by sharing one electron with each hydrogen atom.
5. Since there are 4 hydrogen atoms, carbon forms 4 single covalent bonds with the hydrogen atoms.