Symbol: C. An amorphous or crystalline element, atomic number 6, atomic weight 12.01, essential to life as it forms the backbone of most organic molecules. It is particularly suited for this role since it readily forms covalent bonds with other carbon atoms and with such elements as hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sulphur. Thus many different types of functional groups can be incorporated into organic molecules. Being a light element, these bonds are particularly stable as the strength of a covalent bond increases with decreasing atomic weight. In addition, many different three-dimensional structures can be formed by carbon-carbon bonding due to the tetrahedral arrangement of electron pairs around singly bonded carbon. All organic carbon is ultimately derived from atmospheric * carbon dioxide fixed during * photosynthesis (see carbon cycle). |
