Carbon and its Compounds in Science

Carbon is a non-metallic element found in all living things. It is a very important element because it can form a large number of compounds — more than any other element. This is due to its unique properties like catenation (forming chains) and tetravalency (making four bonds).

Carbon compounds are substances made up of carbon atoms bonded with other elements like hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, etc. These compounds are called organic compounds when found in or related to living organisms

Examples of Carbon Compounds:

• Methane (CH₄) – used as a fuel
• Ethanol (C₂H₅OH) – found in alcoholic drinks and sanitizers
• Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) – sugar used by our body for energy
• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) – gas released during breathing and combustion

Types of Carbon Compounds:

1. Organic compounds – contain carbon and hydrogen, usually from living things
2. Inorganic compounds – like carbon dioxide, carbonates, etc.

Carbon and its compounds are used in fuels, plastics, medicines, and many everyday products.