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This section contains summaries of atomic properties, molecular properties, and chemical properties of carbon. Its roles in earth science, and biology will also be described. astronomical properties and abundance, Carbon is , element number 6. It has three principal isotopes, one of them radioactive. The most common is used as the standard of atomic weight, whereas the radioactive one is used for archeological dating. |
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Carbon atoms form bonds each other more easily than any other element, and it has multiple bonding capabilities. It is usually found as one of two types of solids, graphite and diamond. Its multiple and self-bonding capabilities make the chemistry of carbon compounds, organic chemistry, the largest single branch of chemistry. |
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Carbon has been known since antiquity, at least in its impure natural forms. It was studied in classical and medieval time, but most of the knowledge of it has come in modern times. Its future is unknown.
Particular individuals and groups who are expert may also be mentioned. Information about the cultural ,institutional, and sociological, and aspects of carbon will also included here.
Carbon and its compounds are fundamental to biology.
Carbon is important in earth science, particularly geology, but smaller amounts are found in hydrospheric sence and atmospheric science. Its worldwide distribution and geohistory area may also be considered.
Carbon is typically found in combined form with hyrogen, oxygen, or both in planetary environments and in space. It serves as a catalyst in the fusion reactions of stellar interiors, and is emitted in great quantities by certain stars.
Carbon reacts with hydrogen to form multiple carbon containing compounds. These include CH40, methane.
Carbon reacts with oxygen to form two principal oxides: Carbon monoxide, CO and Carbon dioxide CO2.
Compounds containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxegin include Formaldehyde CH2O
Isotopes
| Nuclear composition | Mass | Abundance | |
| 12C6 | 12 (exact) | 98.90% | |
| 13C6 | 13.003354938(1) | 1.10% | |
| 14C6 | 14.003241998(4) | Tr |