What determines whether a carbon atom's covalent bonds to other atoms are in a tetrahedral configuration or a planar configuration?
A) the presence or absence of bonds with oxygen atoms
B) the presence or absence of double bonds between the carbon atom and other atoms
C) the polarity of the covalent bonds between carbon and other atoms
D) the presence or absence of bonds with nitrogen atoms
E) the solvent that the organic molecule is dissolved in

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence or absence of double bonds between the carbon atom and other atoms determines whether its covalent bonds are in a tetrahedral or planar configuration. In a tetrahedral configuration, the carbon atom is bonded to four different atoms or groups, while in a planar configuration, the carbon atom is bonded to two atoms or groups and has a double bond with another atom. This creates a flat or planar structure.

What Determines Whether a Carbon Atom's Covalent Bonds to Other