Carbon (C)
Carbon (C) is element 6, a nonmetal. Atomic mass 12.011, configuration [He] 2s² 2p². Properties, isotopes, oxidation states, uses and history, with an interactive 3D atom model.
Key facts
| Atomic number | 6 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | C |
| Standard atomic weight | [12.0096,12.0116] |
| Category | Other nonmetal |
| Group | 14 |
| Period | 2 |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [He] 2s² 2p² |
| Valence electrons | 4 |
| Common oxidation states | -4, +2, +4 |
| Common ions | No common ions |
| Electronegativity (Pauling) | 2.55 |
| First ionization energy | 1086 kJ/mol |
| Electron affinity | 121.8 kJ/mol |
| Atomic radius | 67 pm |
| Density | 2.2 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | Sublimes |
| Boiling point | Sublimes |
| Specific heat | 0.709 J/(g·°C) |
Natural isotopes
- C-12: Stable (98.9%)
- C-13: Stable (1.1%)
- C-14: Radioactive (trace)
Common uses
- Steel manufacturing
- Filters
- Gemstones
- Fuels
Where it matters
- Climate Change (Carbon Cycle)
- Organic Chemistry (Basis of Life)
- Radiocarbon dating
Hazards
- CO/CO₂ from combustion
- dust inhalation
History
| Discovered | Prehistoric |
|---|---|
| Discovered by | Ancient Civilizations |
| Name | Antoine Lavoisier |