A) Why is carbon said to provide a “backbone” in many molecules? (1 point)

Carbon is said to provide a “backbone” in many molecules because **carbon atoms can form chains and branches with each other, and other atoms can attach to these**. This ability to form stable covalent bonds with other carbon atoms allows for the creation of complex molecular structures, such as hydrocarbons and larger organic compounds.

A) Which option describes the structure of the electron shells in a neutral carbon atom?

(1 point)
The inner shell is complete with two electrons. The outer shell is incomplete with four electrons.
The inner shell is complete with three electrons. The outer shell is incomplete with three
electrons.
The inner shell is incomplete with three electrons. The outer shell is incomplete with three
electrons.
The inner shell is complete with four electrons. The outer shell is incomplete with two electrons.

The option that describes the structure of the electron shells in a neutral carbon atom is: **The inner shell is complete with two electrons. The outer shell is incomplete with four electrons.**

In a neutral carbon atom, there are two electrons in the inner shell (K shell) and four electrons in the outer shell (L shell), making a total of six electrons.

A) Based on the naming rules for ions, which of the following is a negatively charged ion (not a

polyatomic ion)? (1 point)
chlorine
chlorate
chlorite
chloride

The negatively charged ion (not a polyatomic ion) from the options given is **chloride**. Chloride is the anion formed when chlorine gains an electron, resulting in a negative charge.