Question

valence electrons quick check
which statement best explains why carbon bonds to four hydrogen atoms to form methane but to only two oxygen atoms to form carbon dioxide? (1 point)
hydrogen shares one valence electron with carbon, and oxygen shares two valence electrons
hydrogen shares electrons with carbon, but oxygen transfers its electrons.
the carbon in carbon dioxide is stable, with fewer - valence electrons than the carbon in methane.
the carbon in methane has more valence electrons to share than the carbon in carbon dioxide.

Explanation:

Carbon has a valence of 4. Hydrogen has a valence of 1 and shares one electron with carbon. So, four hydrogen atoms are needed to satisfy carbon's valence. Oxygen has a valence of 6 and shares two electrons with carbon. So, two oxygen atoms are needed to satisfy carbon's valence.

Answer:

Hydrogen shares one valence electron with carbon, and oxygen shares two valence electrons.