PASSAGE-II : In all the organic compounds, the four valencies of carbon atom must be satisfied, either by single, double or triple bonds. It is not possible to get a compound in which the carbon atom has valencies either less or more than four. In these compounds carbon atoms can be linked together in the form of straight chains, branched chains or even ring chains.
In order to form branching, an organic compound must have a minimum of

Options

A. four carbon atoms
B. three carbon atoms
C. five carbon atoms
D. any number of carbon atoms

Answer

To determine the minimum number of carbon atoms required to form a branching in an organic compound, we need to consider the bonding characteristics of carbon and how branching occurs.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Carbon's Valency**:
- Carbon has four valencies, meaning it can form four bonds with other atoms. These bonds can be single, double, or triple.

2. **Formation of Straight Chains**:
- If we have only one carbon atom (C), it can bond with three hydrogen atoms (H) to form CH₄ (methane). This structure does not allow for branching.

3. **Adding More Carbon Atoms**:
- With two carbon atoms (C-C), we can form a straight chain (like ethane, C₂H₆). Again, this does not allow for branching.

4. **Introducing a Third Carbon Atom**:
- With three carbon atoms (C-C-C), we can form a straight chain (like propane, C₃H₈). Still, no branching occurs.

5. **Reaching Four Carbon Atoms**:
- When we have four carbon atoms (C-C-C-C), we can start to create branching. For example, if we arrange them as CH₃-CH(CH₃)-CH₂-CH₃, we can see that one carbon atom branches off from the main chain.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, to form a branching in an organic compound, a minimum of **four carbon atoms** is required.

### Final Answer:
To form branching in an organic compound, a minimum of **4 carbon atoms** is needed.