1. Covalent Bonding: Carbon compounds are primarily composed of carbon atoms that form covalent bonds with other elements. Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms.

1. Hydrocarbons: These are compounds composed of only carbon and hydrogen atoms. They can be classified into alkanes (single bonds), alkenes (double bonds), and alkynes (triple bonds).
2. Functional Groups: These are specific groups of atoms within a molecule that determine its chemical properties. Common functional groups in carbon compounds include alcohols (-OH), carboxylic acids (-COOH), and amines (-NH2).
3. Isomerism: Carbon compounds often exhibit isomerism, where different compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements, leading to distinct chemical properties.
4. Combustion: Carbon compounds, especially hydrocarbons, undergo combustion in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy. This process is a major source of energy in various applications.
5. Substitution Reactions: In hydrocarbons, substitution reactions occur when a hydrogen atom is replaced by another atom or group of atoms. Halogenation (substitution with halogens) is a common example.
6. Addition Reactions: In alkenes and alkynes, addition reactions occur when atoms or groups of atoms are added across the double or triple bond, converting them to single bonds.
7. Polymerization: Carbon compounds can undergo polymerization, where smaller molecules (monomers) combine to form larger molecules (polymers). Examples include the formation of plastics and synthetic fibers.

1. Oxidation and Reduction: Carbon compounds can undergo oxidation (loss of electrons) and reduction (gain of electrons) reactions, leading to changes in their chemical properties.
2. Acid-Base Reactions: Carbon compounds with functional groups like carboxylic acids and amines can participate in acid-base reactions, where they donate or accept protons (H+ ions).
3. Esterification: Carboxylic acids react with alcohols to form esters and water. Esters are commonly found in the fragrance and flavor industries.
4. Saponification: This is the hydrolysis of esters in the presence of a base, typically producing soap and glycerol.
5. Fermentation: Carbohydrates can be converted into alcohol and carbon dioxide through fermentation, a process used in the production of alcoholic beverages and biofuels.
6. Hydrolysis: Many carbon compounds can undergo hydrolysis, where a compound reacts with water to break apart into simpler molecules.
7. Biomolecules: Carbon compounds are the basis of biomolecules like carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, which are essential for life processes.

Let’s practice!