What is methane? Draw its electron dot structure. Name the type of bonds formed in this
compound. Why are such compounds:
(i) poor conductors of electricity? and
(ii) have low melting and boiling points? What happens when this compound burns in
oxygen.

Explanation

`CH_(4)` simplest hydrocarbon
Covalent bonds
(i) No ions or charged particles are formed.
(ii) Due to weak covalent bonds.
Carbon dioxide and water are produced
`CH_(2)+2O_(2)toCO_(2)+2H_(2)O`
Detailed Answer: Methane is a colourless and highly flammable gas produced on decomposition of vegetation naturally in marshlands. It is the simplest hydrocarbon (CH). Electron dot structure : Same as in Marking Scheme answer All the bonds present between four hydrogen atoms and one carbon atom at the center are covalent bonds
(i) (i) Methane is a poor conductor of electricity as all the bonds present are covalent bonds. Hence, no free electrons are available for conduction of
electricity.
(ii) As force of attraction between the molecules is
not very strong in covalently bonded carbon compounds, therefore, methane being a covalent compound has very low melting and boiling point. When methane burns in oxygen, carbon dioxide, water and large amount of heat and light is released
`CH_(4)+O_(2)toCO_(2)+H_(2)O+` heat and light