What Makes Carbon So Special?

Carbon is the star of organic chemistry! Its ability to form four strong covalent bonds makes it the backbone of countless molecules. In organic compounds, carbon atoms can bond with hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other carbons, creating chains, rings, and complex 3D structures.

Types of Bonds

• Single bonds (\( \sigma \) bonds): Allow rotation and form the framework of many molecules.
• Double and triple bonds (\( \pi \) bonds): Make molecules more rigid and reactive.
• Hybridization: Carbon’s orbitals mix to create shapes like tetrahedral (sp³), trigonal planar (sp²), and linear (sp).

Drawing Molecules

Chemists use structural formulas, condensed formulas, and line-angle drawings to represent molecules. Recognizing these helps you visualize how atoms connect and interact.

Isomerism

Isomers are molecules with the same formula but different structures. This gives rise to a fascinating diversity of organic compounds!

Real World Connections

The structure of molecules determines their properties, such as the difference between ethanol (drinkable alcohol) and dimethyl ether (a gas).