Question

Select incorrect option:

• A. Carbon can have negative oxidation state in its compounds.
• B. CO$_2$ is most acidic oxide among oxides of group-14 elements.
• C. Maximum valency of carbon is four.
• D. Carbon has least catenation property in group 14.

Hint:

Catenation decreases down the group due to weakening of element–element bonds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Analyse each statement.
(1) Carbon shows negative oxidation state in compounds like CH$_4$ — correct.
(2) CO$_2$ is most acidic oxide in group 14 due to high electronegativity — correct.
(3) Carbon shows maximum covalency of four — correct.
(4) Carbon has least catenation property — incorrect.
Step 2: Explanation of incorrect statement.
Carbon has the highest catenation property in group 14 due to strong C–C bonds and small atomic size.