Carbon

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Carbon (C) is the sixth most abundant element in the universe. It exists in three naturally occurring forms: amorphous, graphite and diamond.

Properties of Carbon

• Atomic number: 6
• Atomic weight: 12.0107
• Melting point: 6,422°F (3,550°C or 3,823 K)
• Boiling point: 6,917°F (3,825°C or 4,098 K)
• Density: 2.2670 grams per cubic centimeter
• Phase at room temperature: Solid
• Element classification: Non-metal
• Period number: 2
• Group number: 14
• Group name: None^[1]

Forms Carbon Takes

Carbon is found free in nature in three allotropic forms: graphite, diamond, and fullerines. A fourth form, known as "white" carbon, is now thought to exist. Graphite is one of the softest known materials while diamond is one of the hardest.^[2] More recently, another form of carbon, buckminsterfullerene, C₆₀, has been discovered.^[3]

References

1. http://education.jlab.org/itselemental/ele006.html
2. http://periodic.lanl.gov/elements/6.html
3. http://www.webelements.com/carbon/