Carbon is the sixth most abundant element in the
planet. Without carbon, life will be non-existent. It provides the framework
for all living organisms on Earth. A carbon atom is composed of six protons and
six neutrons. Carbon is found in almost everything that surrounds us; they are
in fuels, coals, natural gas, even the proteins that make-up hair and meat
contain carbon. This is mainly because carbon atoms can bond to other carbon
atoms to make a compound. It is naturally found in the environment and its
abundance fits its purpose in our existence.
