Basic Principles: Of Organic Chemistry

Carbon is the "backbone" of organic chemistry because it is , meaning it can form four stable covalent bonds with other atoms.

Atoms share electron pairs. These can be sigma ( ) bonds (single bonds) or pi ( ) bonds (found in double and triple bonds). 2. Electronic Effects (The "Six Pillars") Basic Principles of Organic Chemistry

Tetrahedral shape (e.g., methane), involves single bonds. Carbon is the "backbone" of organic chemistry because

This is carbon's unique ability to link with other carbon atoms to form long chains or rings. Basic Principles of Organic Chemistry