Biology/Bioliogy
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Question
How do the chemical characteristics of carbon affect the characteristics of organic molecules?
Thanks for using AllExperts, Austin. Carbon has a valence of four electrons, which means that it wants to gain or lose four electrons to form a complete, stable octet. It has no lone pairs of electrons, and is neither strongly acidic nor basic. Carbon is also not particularly electronegative: it tends to share electrons as part of covalent bonding, rather than gain or lose them directly as in ionic bonding. Carbon is able to form four covalent bonds, and it can do this by combinations of single, double, or triple bonds. It can form into long chains, rings, and complex structures that other atoms are incapable of. Taken together, these characteristics account for the behavior of organic molecules.
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Answers by Expert:
John Locke
Expertise
I will answer all biology-related questions through the undergraduate level. I will explain unclear concepts and suggest approaches to solving problems, but would prefer not to completely solve homework problems for you. If you are completely stumped on homework, tell me what you already know and I will help you as much as possible. Please do not ask me for ideas on school research projects; part of research is determining a suitable area of investigation, and that's not a task that should be completed by someone else. Please don't simply send me your homework for solutions. If you are having difficulty after you have started an analysis, I will be happy to direct your thinking; in particular, I would prefer to not simply solve pedigrees for students, but I will be happy to assist in solving pedigrees that you have already started. If you don't understand how to analyze a pedigree, I'd highly recommend watching this video, in which a biology professor explains the basic concepts of pedigree analysis: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbIHjsn5cHo
Experience
I have a BS in Bioengineering with a concentration in Chemical Engineering (which included a heavy focus on biology), and have taught biology, biochemistry, and related subjects for some time now.
Education/Credentials
BS Bioengineering, Penn State University
MCAT/DAT/OAT Instructor
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