Carbon
Carbon is a non-metal and exists in three main allotropes: diamond, graphite, and amorphous carbon.
Essential for life—it is the building block of organic molecules (proteins, carbohydrates, fats, etc.).
Can form 4 covalent bonds—basis for millions of organic compounds.
SymbolC
Atomic Number6
Group14 (Carbon Group)
TypeNon-metal
Key Features
- Diamond is the hardest natural substance.
- Graphite is a good conductor of electricity.
- Amorphous carbon includes coal and charcoal.
- Found in fossil fuels, carbon dioxide, and carbonates.
- Carbon moves through the biosphere, atmosphere, oceans, and geosphere—called the carbon cycle.
Interesting Facts
Carbon can form millions of compounds, more than any other element!