Question

Give reasons for the following observations: 

(a) The element carbon forms a very large number of compounds. 

(b) Air holes of a gas burner have to be adjusted when the heated vessels get blackened by the flame. 

(c) Use of synthetic detergents causes pollution of water.

Answer 1

(a) Carbon forms large number of compounds since carbon is small in size and can form stable covalent bonds (catenation) and it shows tetravalency. 

(b) Air holes of gas burner are made open (adjusted) so that air can pass through, which is needed for complete combustion, so that heated vessels do not get blackened. 

(c) Some synthetic detergents are non-biodegradable, therefore, cause pollution of water