Carbon is a nonmetallic element with the symbol C and atomic number 6. It belongs to Group 14 of the periodic table, also known as the carbon group. Carbon is one of the most important elements on Earth because it is the building block of all known life and forms more compounds than any other element.
Physical Properties:
-
Allotropes: Exists in several forms, including:
-
Diamond: Hardest natural substance, transparent, excellent insulator
-
Graphite: Soft, black, slippery, good conductor of electricity
-
Fullerenes and Graphene: Modern nanomaterials with unique properties
-
-
State at Room Temperature: Solid
-
Color: Varies by allotrope (diamond is colorless, graphite is black)
Chemical Properties:
-
Atomic Number: 6
-
Electronic Configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p²
-
Valency: 4 (tetravalent – can form four covalent bonds)
-
Reactivity: Forms stable covalent bonds with many elements, including hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other carbon atoms
Occurrence:
-
Found in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide (CO₂)
-
Present in fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas)
-
Exists in limestone as calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)
-
Found in all living organisms in the form of organic molecules
Biological Importance:
-
Carbon is the foundation of organic chemistry
-
Present in carbohydrates, proteins, fats, nucleic acids (DNA/RNA)
-
Enables the complexity and diversity of life due to its ability to form long chains and rings
Uses:
-
Fuels: Coal, oil, and natural gas are carbon-based
-
Steel industry: Used as coke in blast furnaces
-
Electronics: Graphite is used in batteries and electrodes
-
Medical field: Activated carbon used in filtration and poison treatment
-
Nanotechnology: Carbon nanotubes and graphene used in advanced materials
Summary:
Carbon is a unique and essential element known for its versatility and ability to form countless compounds. It plays a central role in both living systems and modern industry, making it one of the most studied and useful elements in science.
No comments: