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Atomic Profile

Carbon (C)

Discover properties, shell configurations, industrial applications, compounds, and historical occurrences of the Carbon element.

6C12.011

Physical Properties

Melting PointSublimates at 3642 °C
Boiling PointSublimates at 3642 °C
Density2.267 g/cm³ (Graphite)
Electronegativity2.55
Group / PeriodGroup 14, Period 2
Electronic Config[He] 2s² 2p²
Bohr Shells2, 4

Bohr Electron Model

Visualizing the concentric Bohr orbits and energy level shells for Carbon.

+6
Shell 1: 2e⁻ | Shell 2: 4e⁻

Origin & Abundance

Discovery Details

Discovered by Known since antiquity in the year Ancient times.

Natural Occurrence

Abundant in the atmosphere as CO₂, dissolved in oceans, and trapped in carbonate rocks. Constitutes the basis of all fossil fuels.

Common Uses & Applications

  • Basic backbone of organic molecules and life
  • Steel manufacturing (carbon steel)
  • Graphite in pencils and lubricants
  • Carbon fiber composites

Common Chemical Compounds

Below are typical molecular compounds formed by Carbon interacting with other elements:

CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide)CH₄ (Methane)C₆H₁₂O₆ (Glucose)CaCO₃ (Calcium Carbonate)

Element Concept Check

What is the capability of carbon to form long chains and rings of carbon-carbon bonds called?

Video Lectures & Fact Files

Watch educational lectures detailing the chemical extraction and molecular spectrums of Carbon.
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