Catenation i.e., linking of similar atoms depends on size and electronic configuration of atoms. The tendency of catenation in group 14 elements follows the order.

Options

A. C `gt` Si `gt` Ge `gt` Sn
B. C `gt gt` Si `gt` Ge `~~` Sn
C. Si `gt` C `gt` Sn `gt` Ge
D. Ge `gt` Sn `gt` Si `gt` C

Explanation

To determine the order of catenation tendency in group 14 elements, we can analyze the properties of the elements in this group, particularly focusing on carbon, silicon, germanium, tin, and lead.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Catenation**:
- Catenation refers to the ability of an element to form chains or rings by bonding to itself. This property is significant in organic chemistry, especially for carbon.

2. **Identify Group 14 Elements**:
- The group 14 elements are Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge), Tin (Sn), and Lead (Pb).

3. **Catenation Tendency**:
- Carbon (C) has the highest tendency to catenate due to its small size and strong C-C bond. The bond energy of C-C is high, making it stable and allowing for the formation of long chains.
- As we move down the group from carbon to lead, the size of the atoms increases. This increase in atomic size leads to a decrease in bond strength due to the longer bond lengths and lower bond energies.

4. **Comparison of Elements**:
- **Carbon (C)**: Highest catenation tendency due to strong C-C bonds.
- **Silicon (Si)**: Lower catenation tendency than carbon, but still significant.
- **Germanium (Ge)**: Similar catenation tendency to silicon, but slightly lower.
- **Tin (Sn)**: Similar to germanium, with a slightly lower tendency.
- **Lead (Pb)**: Lowest catenation tendency due to the weakest bonds among the group.

5. **Order of Catenation Tendency**:
- Based on the analysis, the order of catenation tendency in group 14 elements is:
- **C > Si > Ge ≈ Sn > Pb**

### Final Answer:
The tendency of catenation in group 14 elements follows the order: **C > Si > Ge ≈ Sn > Pb**.