Important Compounds and Applications (Oxides, Hydrides, Halides, Organohalides)
Start with the big picture
Group 14 compounds have varied applications across metallurgy, manufacturing, electronics, and materials science. Carbon monoxide serves as an industrial reductant but is toxic because it binds hemoglobin and impairs oxygen transport. Carbon dioxide has uses in carbonation, fire extinguishers, and as a supercritical solvent. Silicon dioxide is important in glass production and electronic devices, while tin and lead oxides also have specialized applications. The hydrides range from methane, a fuel and chemical feedstock, to less stable heavier hydrides. Halides include useful precursors and catalysts, alongside compounds whose use has been restricted for environmental or health reasons. Fluorocarbons and polymers such as PVC and PTFE connect this chemistry to microfabrication and manufactured products.
What you'll learn
- Identify key industrial and technological uses of selected Group 14 oxides.
- Explain the roles of methane, silane, and germane in fuel and materials applications.
- Relate the instability of heavier Group 14 hydrides to the down-group trend.
- Distinguish useful Group 14 halides from compounds associated with health or environmental concerns.
- Recognize applications of fluorocarbons and polymers such as PVC and PTFE.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
