A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

142

Forms

Carbon has the largest number of

compounds of any element – with more

than nine million known. Carbon is the

fourth most common element in the Universe.

Each carbon atom can bond to four others,

allowing them to form chains and rings. Pure

carbon exists in three forms on Earth –

graphite, diamond, and buckminsterfullerene

(a structure based on 60 interlinked carbon

atoms). Diamond is the hardest substance in

nature. It is often used in jewellery. The blades

of some saws are coated with diamonds, and

Carbon 6 6 6 State: SolidDiscovery: Prehistoric

C

6

Coal

This compressed form

of sooty carbon is

formed underground.

Mixture

of liquid,

carbon-rich

compounds

Glossy surface

This colourless

cr ystal forms in

magma deep

underground.

This diamond's brightness

depends on its cut, which determines

how many times light entering

the gem will reflect inside.

Crude oil

The shiny, metallic

surface feels soft

and slippery.

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