When we think about the term ‘carbon’, many of us might think of the gas and the charcoal type material that is left after something has burned. But carbon is so much more. In fact, carbon is the fourth most abundant element in our world, which helps to answer the common question: Why is a lump of coal made out of the same material as a shiny diamond? Even humans are made of carbon.

Carbon belongs to group 14 on the periodic table and has an atomic number of 6, symbolised by the letter ‘C’ (the chemical symbol).

Here are some interesting facts about this amazing element, which you may not have already known:

“IT’S THE GLUE OF LIFE”

Carbon can be found in organic material, including the DNA, proteins, and other areas of the human body. Some say that water is the key to life on our planet, and whilst this is partially true (as most life on earth cannot survive without water!), carbon is also an essential tool for bonding the atoms together. Carbon is present in all living matter such as animals, humans and plants and also in rocks. However, carbon only makes up 0.025% of the Earth’s crust (according to science).

CARBON IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON ELEMENTS IN THE UNIVERSE

Sitting between Boron and Nitrogen on the periodic table, it is easy to quickly understand the significance of this well-known element (Nitrogen is the most common gas in our atmosphere and Boron is also a nutrient for the human body). The structure consists of six protons, six neutrons, and six electrons. Whilst its relative’s hydrogen and helium are believed to have been formed during the turbulence of the ‘Big Bang’, carbon is believed to have emanated from an accumulation of alpha particles in supernova explosions.

CARBON IS NAMED AFTER COAL

While we’ve known carbon as coal and soot (after combustion) for thousands of years, in 1772 Antoine Lavoisier demonstrated that it has a unique chemical structure. He used a solar furnace, to burn a diamond in a glass jar and then by examining resultant residue, he was able to show that diamond consisted exclusively of carbon.

CARBON LOVES TO BOND

Carbon can establish four bonds, which it does with many other elements, creating a multitude of compounds, most of which we encounter regularly, including plastics, medications, and fuels. Crucially these structures are both robust and adaptable.

ALMOST A FIFTH OF YOUR BODY IS CARBON

Carbon makes up all life forms, and there is a huge variety in the substances that it makes, such as fats and sugars. All living things are constructed on a foundation of carbon. The human body consists of nearly 19% carbon (by weight). It can also be inorganic, it combines with oxygen and other substances to make up sizable parts of the non-living world, like rocks and minerals. The newest member of the carbon family is graphene, which was discovered by chance in 2004 by Andre Geim and Kostya Novoselov. This new material is extremely thin and resilient, it also earned its discoverers a Nobel Prize in Physics in 2010.

DIAMONDS AREN'T CALLED "ICE" BECAUSE OF THEIR LOOK

Diamonds are called "ice" due to their capacity to carry heat whilst remaining cool to the touch and not because of the way they look.
This makes them suitable for use as heat sinks in microchips, however, in most cases synthetic diamonds are deployed. The three-dimensional lattice structure of diamonds converts heat into lattice vibrations, which gives diamonds a high thermal conductivity.

Absolute Carbon Filters – Experts in Carbon

Speak to our team about your carbon filter requirements, suitable for a range of different facilities and customisable to suit your needs. Whether your requirements are a laboratory fume cupboard and other air & gas applications, metal processing or organic waste, we can find a solution for you – contact us here or call 01252 788096 for specialist information and a quote.