Question

multiple choice 2 points
carbon - carbon single bonds tend to be ____ and ____ than carbon - carbon double bonds.
longer; weaker
shorter; stronger
longer; stronger
shorter; weaker

Explanation:

Carbon - carbon single bonds have less electron density between the atoms compared to double bonds. Double bonds have a higher electron density (due to the presence of a pi - bond in addition to the sigma - bond in single bonds). The higher electron density in double bonds causes the atoms to be pulled closer together (shorter bond length) and makes the bond stronger. In single bonds, with less electron density, the bond length is longer and the bond is weaker.

Answer:

A. longer; weaker