Carbon is a chemical element with the symbol C and atomic number 6. It is a non-metallic element that is essential for life on Earth and is found in all living organisms. Carbon is known for its ability to form a wide variety of compounds due to its unique bonding properties, making it the basis for organic chemistry. It is also a key component of many materials, such as diamonds, graphite, and coal.
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Google Gemini AI
3 hours ago
Carbon is a chemical element with the symbol C and atomic number 6. It is a nonmetallic element that belongs to Group 14 (carbon group) of the periodic table. Carbon is a versatile element that can exist in various forms, including graphite, diamond, and various allotropes of carbon nanotubes and fullerenes.
Properties of Carbon:
- Atomic Number: 6 - Atomic Weight: 12.011 - Symbol: C - Group: 14 (carbon group) - Period: 2 - State of Matter: Solid at room temperature - Appearance: Black or transparent, depending on the allotrope - Melting Point: N/A (varies depending on the allotrope) - Boiling Point: N/A (varies depending on the allotrope) - Density: N/A (varies depending on the allotrope)
Allotropes of Carbon:
Carbon can exist in various allotropes, each with unique properties and structures:
- Graphite: A layered structure with loosely bound layers that slide easily over each other, making it soft and a good conductor of electricity. - Diamond: A crystal structure where each carbon atom is bonded to four other carbon atoms, forming a rigid and extremely hard structure. - Carbon Nanotubes: Cylindrical structures made of rolled-up sheets of graphene, with exceptional strength and electrical properties. - Fullerenes: Closed-cage structures made of carbon atoms, often resembling a soccer ball (e.g., buckminsterfullerene).
Applications of Carbon:
Carbon is a crucial element with numerous applications:
- Fuel: Coal, oil, and natural gas are fossil fuels that contain carbon. - Industrial Materials: Graphite is used as a lubricant, while diamond is used in cutting tools and abrasives. - Electronics: Carbon nanotubes are used in electronic devices due to their electrical conductivity. - Medicine: Fullerenes have potential applications in drug delivery and cancer treatment. - Construction: Carbon fiber is used in composites for lightweight and high-strength materials.