C

Carbon

IUPAC: Carbon

C Elements CAS 7440-44-0
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC
CAS Number7440-44-0
Molecular Weight12.01
Melting Point3550.0
Boiling Point4827.0
Density2.27
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceBlack powder (amorphous), transparent crystal (diamond), grey flakes (graphite)
Also Known AsC, carbon element
CategoryElements

What is Carbon?

Carbon is a non-metal, atomic number 6, forming the basis of all known life. Allotropes include diamond, graphite, graphene, and fullerenes. Forms more compounds than any other element.

Formula & Notation

C

IUPAC Name: Carbon

Other Names / Synonyms: C, carbon element

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 6. Atomic mass: 12.011 g/mol. Period 2, Group 14. Diamond: hardest natural substance, insulator. Graphite: soft, conductor. Graphene: one atom thick. Electronegativity: 2.55. Forms four bonds. Isotopes: C-12, C-13, C-14 (radioactive).

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point3550.0
Boiling Point4827.0
Density2.27
Molecular Weight12.01
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceBlack powder (amorphous), transparent crystal (diamond), grey flakes (graphite)

Uses & Applications

Coal fuel. Diamond cutting tools and jewellery. Graphite in pencils, lubricants, electrodes. Carbon fibre composites. Activated carbon filtration. Carbon black in tyres. Carbon-14 radiocarbon dating.

Safety Information

Graphite dust: respiratory irritant with prolonged exposure. Carbon monoxide (CO) from incomplete combustion: highly toxic (IDLH 1200 ppm). Diamond dust: abrasive hazard. Amorphous carbon: inhalation hazard.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Carbon
Formula C
CAS Number 7440-44-0
Molecular Weight 12.01
Category Elements
Synonyms C, carbon element

Frequently Asked Questions

Carbon is a non-metal, atomic number 6, forming the basis of all known life. Allotropes include diamond, graphite, graphene, and fullerenes. Forms more compounds than any other element.

More "C" Terms

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