Carbon's central role in life and organic chemistry stems from its ability to form diverse bonds, creating a vast array of organic compounds. Its allotropes, like graphite and diamond, have unique properties that make them useful in various applications. Carbon's atomic structure with six protons and electrons, and typically six or seven neutrons, allows for the formation of stable organic molecules. Its involvement in reactions like combustion and polymerization is crucial for the development of fuels and polymers, highlighting its importance in daily life and the Earth's carbon cycle.
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Carbon's ability to bond with a wide range of elements allows for the creation of diverse organic compounds
Graphite
Graphite's hexagonal lattice structure makes it soft and a good conductor of electricity
Diamond
Diamond's tetrahedral lattice structure makes it extremely hard and a good thermal conductor
Fullerenes
Fullerenes have unique properties due to their spherical shape and carbon atom arrangement
Carbon can participate in a variety of chemical reactions, such as combustion and polymerization, due to its tetravalency
Carbon's atomic structure consists of six protons, six or seven neutrons, and six electrons
Carbon-12
Carbon-12 is the most abundant isotope of carbon with an atomic mass of approximately 12.01 amu
Carbon-14
Carbon-14 is a less common and radioactive isotope used in radiocarbon dating
Carbon's four outermost electrons allow it to form four covalent bonds, leading to the creation of complex organic molecules
Carbon is involved in the reaction of hydrocarbons with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water
Carbon's ability to form long chains and rings allows for the creation of polymers through the joining of monomers
Carbon is a key component of natural gas, oil, and coal, and is used in the production of fuels and chemicals
Carbon is present in everyday items such as pencils, jewelry, and advanced technology materials
The carbon cycle describes the exchange of carbon between the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, biosphere, and geosphere, highlighting its integral role in the planet's systems
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Branch of science studying carbon-based compounds
Organic chemistry focuses on compounds with carbon.
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Allotropic forms of carbon
Carbon allotropes include graphite, diamond, fullerenes.
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Properties of graphite vs. diamond
Graphite: soft, conducts electricity. Diamond: hard, conducts heat, insulates electricity.
