Lauren H. answered • 03/28/19
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Experienced High School Chemistry Teacher
In chemistry, catenation is the bonding of atoms of the same into a series, called a chain.
Elements catenate because all things seek their lowest level of energy (the entropy of the universe increases). A linked or bonded formation results in a lower energy state, in general. Diatomic examples include H2, O2, N2, F2, Cl2, Br2, I2. S8 is another example.
Catenation Definition: Catenation is the binding of an element to itself through covalent bonds to form chain or ring molecules.Examples: Carbon is the most common element that exhibits catenation. It can form long hydrocarbon chains and rings like benzene.
