Why Is Silicon Not Suitable for Making Covalent Bonds Stable

question 17

Multiple Choice

Why is silicon not suitable for making covalent bonds stable and strong enough to form the basis of living organisms,even though it is just below carbon on the periodic table?

• A)Silicon is too large for its nucleus to attract the valence electrons of neighboring atoms enough to hold molecules together sufficiently.
• B)Silicon is too small for its nucleus to attract the valence electrons of neighboring atoms enough to hold molecules together sufficiently.
• C)Silicon is too large for its nucleus to attract the protons of neighboring atoms enough to hold molecules together.
• D)Silicon is too small for its nucleus to attract the protons of neighboring atoms enough to hold molecules together.

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Definitions:

Benzophenone

An organic compound with the formula (C6H5)2CO, often used as a photoinitiator or to perfume soaps.

Alkene

A hydrocarbon that contains at least one carbon-carbon double bond, characterized by the general formula CnH2n and playing a vital role in organic synthesis.

Dimethyl Sulfide

A sulfur-containing organic compound with the formula (CH3)2S, known for its distinctive smell.

Methyl Acrylate

An organic compound used as a monomer in the production of polyacrylic fibers and resins.