Catenation i.e., linking of similar atoms depends on size and electronic configuration of atoms. The tendency of catenation in Group 14 elements follows the order:
The decrease in catenation property is linked with M – M bond energy which decreases from carbon to tin.
The greater the M-M bond energy the greater is the tendency to form catenation.
The energy difference between the Carbon-Carbon and silicon-silicon bond energy is very high and that between Ge-Ge and Sn-Sn is very less.