Which of the following best describes how carbon skeletons can vary in organic molecules?

• A. They can differ in length, branching, presence of double bonds, and ring formation.
• B. They can only vary by the type of functional group attached.
• C. They can only form straight chains with no branching or rings.
• D. They can only vary by the number of hydrogen atoms attached.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the carbon skeleton of an organic molecule refers to the arrangement of carbon atoms in the molecule, which forms the backbone structure.
2. Recognize that carbon atoms can connect in various ways: they can form straight chains, branched chains, or rings, which changes the shape and properties of the molecule.
3. Know that carbon skeletons can also vary by the length of the chain, meaning the number of carbon atoms present can differ.
4. Be aware that the presence of double bonds (or triple bonds) between carbon atoms introduces unsaturation, which also affects the structure and reactivity of the molecule.
5. Conclude that the variation in carbon skeletons is not limited to functional groups or hydrogen atoms but includes differences in length, branching, double bonds, and ring formation.