What are the two properties of carbon which lead to the huge number of carbon compounds we see around us?

Explanation

(i) Catenation: Carbon has the unique ability to form bonds with other atoms of carbon, giving rise to large molecules. This property is called catenation. These compounds may have long chains of carbon, branched chains of carbon or even carbon atoms arranged in rings.

In addition, carbon atoms may be linked by single, double or triple bonds.
(ii) Tetravelency: Since carbon has a valency of four, it is capable of bonding with four other atoms of carbon or atoms of some other monovalent elements. In order to satisfy its tetravelency, carbon can form double or triple bonds with other C-atoms or with oxygen, nitrogen also. Compounds of carbon are formed with oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulphur, chlorine and many other elements giving rise to compounds with specific properties which depend on the elements othe than carbon present in the molecule.