Introduction to Carbon & Its Allotropes

Carbon (symbol C, atomic number 6) is a nonmetal that is essential for all known life. It can form a vast number of compounds, more than any other element. Carbon exists in several forms, known as allotropes, which have different structures and properties.

Key Allotropes:

• Diamond:
  • Extremely hard, tetrahedral lattice structure.
  • Used in jewelry and as an abrasive for cutting and grinding.
  • Each carbon atom is bonded to four other carbon atoms.
• Graphite:
  • Soft, layered structure. Conducts electricity.
  • Used in pencils ("lead"), lubricants, and electrodes.
  • Each carbon atom is bonded to three other carbon atoms in flat sheets.
• Fullerenes (e.g., Buckminsterfullerene C₆₀):
  • Molecules composed entirely of carbon, taking the form of hollow spheres, ellipsoids, or tubes (carbon nanotubes).
  • C₆₀ molecules are often called "buckyballs."
  • Potential applications in nanotechnology, medicine, and electronics.

The visualizer on the right shows interactive models of these structures!