Which of the following has least tendency of catenation?

Options

A. C
B. Si
C. Ge
D. Sn

Explanation

To determine which element has the least tendency for catenation, we need to understand the concept of catenation and how it varies among different elements.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Catenation**:
- Catenation refers to the ability of an element to form chains or rings by bonding with itself. This occurs when atoms of the same element link together to form larger structures.

2. **Elements in Consideration**:
- The question implies we are comparing elements from the same group in the periodic table. Typically, we consider elements from Group 14 (IV), which includes Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge), Tin (Sn), and Lead (Pb).

3. **Catenation in Carbon**:
- Carbon exhibits the highest tendency for catenation due to its small atomic size and strong covalent bonding capability. Carbon can form long chains and complex structures.

4. **Catenation in Other Elements**:
- As we move down the group from Carbon to Silicon, Germanium, Tin, and Lead, the atomic size increases. This increase in size leads to weaker bonds due to the longer bond lengths and decreased overlap of atomic orbitals.

5. **Comparison of Elements**:
- **Silicon (Si)**: Has some catenation ability but less than Carbon.
- **Germanium (Ge)**: Shows even less catenation than Silicon.
- **Tin (Sn)**: Further decreases in catenation ability.
- **Lead (Pb)**: Exhibits the least tendency for catenation due to its larger size and weaker bonding.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Among the elements in Group 14, Tin (Sn) has a larger atomic size compared to Carbon, Silicon, and Germanium, leading to the least tendency for catenation. Therefore, the correct answer is **Tin (Sn)**.

### Final Answer:
**Tin (Sn)** has the least tendency for catenation.