Question

What is carbon's atomic number? A. 10 C. \(12.011\) B. 13 D. 6

Short answer

Carbon's atomic number is 6.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction to Atomic Numbers

The atomic number of an element tells us the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom of that element. Each element has a unique atomic number which is used to identify it.

Identifying Carbon

Locate carbon on the periodic table. Carbon is the sixth element in the periodic table and belongs to Group 14.

Reading the Atomic Number

On the periodic table, carbon is represented by the symbol 'C' and is found in Period 2. The atomic number is usually located above or next to the element's symbol, and for carbon, it's 6.

Matching with Options

Compare the atomic number for carbon with the given options. The option D which is 6 matches carbon's atomic number.

Key concepts

Periodic Table

The periodic table is a systematic arrangement of chemical elements ordered by increasing atomic number. It is a cornerstone of chemistry and physics, allowing scientists to understand the properties and relationships between elements.

• The elements are arranged in rows called periods and columns called groups.
• Each element on the periodic table is represented by its symbol, name, atomic number, and often its atomic mass.
• The atomic number increases from left to right across a period.

The table helps in predicting chemical behaviors and reactivities and is essential for identifying each element's properties, including the number of protons, electrons, and its general uses in scientific inquiry.

Carbon

Carbon, represented by the symbol 'C' on the periodic table, is an essential element in the field of chemistry and biology. As part of Group 14 and Period 2 on the periodic table, carbon is pivotal in the formation of life and countless organic compounds.

• Carbon is well-known for its versatility and ability to form stable covalent bonds with many elements, especially hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.
• It is a non-metal and is crucial in organic chemistry, as it forms the backbone of organic molecules.
• Carbon exists in several allotropic forms, including graphite, diamond, and fullerenes.

The significance of carbon in both natural processes and numerous industrial applications is immense.

Protons

Protons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom, carrying a positive electrical charge. They play a vital role in defining the fundamental properties of an element, notably its atomic number.

• Each proton contributes a single positive charge, which balances the negative charges of electrons in an atom.
• The number of protons in an atom's nucleus is equal to the atomic number, essentially defining the element.
• For example, carbon has six protons, meaning its atomic number is 6.

The presence and number of protons dictate the unique identity of each element on the periodic table, distinguishing one from another.

Element Identification

Element identification is the process of determining which chemical element a particular atom belongs to, primarily through its atomic number. The atomic number, which equals the number of protons in the nucleus, is a definitive identifier of elements.

• An atom's identity is unique to its atomic number, which forms the basis of how elements are organized on the periodic table.
• Referred to as a 'chemical fingerprint,' the atomic number differentiates elements and helps predict chemical behavior.
• For instance, carbon, with an atomic number of 6, can be readily identified by locating the number 6 on the periodic table.

Knowing how to identify an element is crucial for scientific research and understanding chemical reactions, properties, and formations.