C - Carbon

Carbon is a fascinating and versatile element that plays a critical role in various aspects of science, technology, and even life itself.

Physical Characteristics:

• Symbol: C
• Atomic Number: 6
• Atomic Mass: 12.011 u
• State at Room Temperature: Solid
• Electronegativity (Pauling scale): 2.55
• Density: Varies by allotrope (e.g., Graphite: 2.267 g/cm³, Diamond: 3.51 g/cm³)
• Melting Point: Sublimation point of graphite is 3,927°C (7,101°F)

Applications:

• Diamond is used in cutting and drilling tools due to its extreme hardness.
• Graphite is used as a lubricant, in pencils, and in nuclear reactors as a neutron moderator.
• Carbon fibers and composites are used for lightweight and high-strength materials in automotive, aerospace, and sporting goods.
• Carbon is a key element in fuel sources like coal, petroleum, and natural gas for energy production.
• Graphene and carbon nanotubes are explored for use in batteries and supercapacitors for energy storage.

Compounds:

1. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): A critical greenhouse gas involved in Earth’s carbon cycle, photosynthesis, and climate change.
2. Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless gas used in industrial processes but dangerous as a poison.
3. Methane (CH4): A potent greenhouse gas and major component of natural gas.
4. Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): Found in rocks (limestone), shells of marine organisms, and is used in cement and lime production.
5. Carbon Disulfide (CS2): Used in the manufacture of rayon and cellophane.
6. Acetic Acid (CH3COOH): An important organic acid used in vinegar and as a chemical reagent and industrial solvent.

Basics on Carbon-Wikipedia