Problem 20 - Anatomy and Physiology of Animals

Question

\(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\) is methane. This compound is _______. a. inorganic b. organic c. reactive d. a crystal

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Methane (\(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\)) is an organic compound.

Step 1: Identify the Elements

Examine the chemical formula of methane, which is \(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\). This formula indicates that the compound consists of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) elements.

Step 2: Understand Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are typically composed of carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen atoms, often with other elements. They are generally based on carbon chains or rings.

Step 3: Apply the Definition

Methane (\(\mathrm{CH}_{4}\)) has a central carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms. This fits the typical structure of an organic compound as it contains a carbon-hydrogen bond.

Step 4: Consider Other Options

The other options are 'inorganic,' 'reactive,' and 'a crystal.' Methane is not a crystal and is often classified as an organic compound rather than inorganic. Its reactivity depends on conditions, but its classification is not typically based solely on reactivity.

Step 5: Decision

Since methane has the molecular structure and characteristics of an organic compound, it is classified as such.

Key Concepts

Methane Structure

Methane (\(\mathrm{CH}_4\)) is a simple and foundational organic compound. It consists of a central carbon atom surrounded by four hydrogen atoms. This arrangement forms a tetrahedral geometry. Think of it as a pyramid with the carbon atom in the center. Each of the hydrogen atoms occupies one corner of the pyramid. The shape is such that it allows for equal spacing, giving methane its stability. This precise symmetrical shape ensures that methane remains as a gas at room temperature. The compact structure also makes methane less reactive under normal conditions, despite being a relatively basic molecule.

Carbon-Hydrogen Bonds

Carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds are the building blocks of organic chemistry. In methane, there are four carbon-hydrogen bonds. These bonds are formed when carbon shares its electrons with hydrogen atoms. Carbon has four electrons in its outer shell and needs four more to fill its valence shell. Each hydrogen atom provides one electron. This sharing allows carbon to achieve a stable electron configuration. This configuration is like noble gases, which is ideal. The C-H bonds in methane play an essential role in determining its chemical and physical properties. These bonds are strong but non-polar, which means they do not easily interact with water. This characteristic is typical of hydrocarbons.

Properties of Organic Compounds

Organic compounds have unique properties influenced by their structures. The carbon backbone is key to their classification. Methane, as the simplest organic compound, showcases some of these properties.

• Stability and Reactivity: Methane is generally stable, owing to its tetrahedral shape and strong C-H bonds.
• Solubility: Being non-polar, methane doesn't readily dissolve in water. However, it is soluble in organic solvents.
• Density and State: Methane is a gas at standard temperature and pressure (STP), with a lower density than air.

These characteristics make methane a vital component in natural gas, used for heating and energy. Its simplicity and abundance make it a starting point for understanding more complex organic compounds.