What is the maximum number of hydrogen atoms that can be covalently bonded in a molecule containing two carbon atoms?a) 2b) 3c)

Response:

           The right answer is Option-D (6 Hydrogen atoms).

Clarification:

                  Carbon possesses a special characteristic that allows it to bond with itself, forming a chain known as Catenation. In a molecule with two carbon atoms, there has to be a bond between them. This bond can either be saturated (simple single bond) or unsaturated (double or triple bond). Since the question mentions the maximal number of hydrogen atoms, we will assume the bond between the two carbon atoms to be single.

                  Each carbon has four valence electrons, enabling them to form four single bonds. In this molecule, every carbon atom has already bonded with another carbon atom through a single bond, leaving each carbon with three unpaired electrons that will form covalent bonds with three hydrogen atoms each, as illustrated in the attached diagram.