Carbon Atoms

Definition

Carbon atoms are the basic units of carbon, a nonmetallic element that is the basis of all organic compounds. Each carbon atom has six protons and can form four covalent bonds with other atoms.

Related terms

Hydrocarbon:

A compound consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms.

Organic Chemistry: The study of compounds containing carbon atoms.

Covalent Bond: A type of chemical bond where two atoms share a pair of electrons.