Question

Catenation is the ability of an atom to form bonds with other atoms of the same element. It is exhibited by both carbon and silicon. Compare the ability of catenation of the two elements. Give reasons.

Answer 1

Both carbon and silicon show the ability of catenation. But compounds made by silicon are reactive and less stable. On the other hand, bonds formed by carbon are very strong and hence organic compounds are more stable than silicon compounds. It can be said that carbon shows better catenation ability than silicon.