How many single covalent bonds must a silicon atom form to have a complete octet in its valence shell?
A) 3
B) 4
C) 2
D) 0
E) 1

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Silicon has four valence electrons, so it needs to share these electrons with four other atoms in order to have a complete octet. Each single covalent bond involves the sharing of two electrons, so silicon needs to form four single covalent bonds, one with each of four other atoms (such as four atoms of chlorine or four atoms of hydrogen). Thus, the answer is B, 4.

How Many Single Covalent Bonds Must a Silicon Atom Form