Atomic Structures of Carbon, Oxygen, Nitrogen, and Sulfur
Carbon (C)
Carbon is a non-metal element with atomic number 6. It plays a crucial role in organic chemistry and forms the backbone of all known life.
- Atomic Number: 6
- Number of Protons: 6
- Number of Electrons: 6
- Electronic Configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p²
- Valence Electrons: 4 (in 2nd shell)
- Valency: 4
- Common Allotropes: Diamond, Graphite, Fullerenes
Oxygen (O)
Oxygen is a highly reactive non-metal and supports combustion and respiration. Its atomic number is 8.
- Atomic Number: 8
- Number of Protons: 8
- Number of Electrons: 8
- Electronic Configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁴
- Valence Electrons: 6
- Valency: 2
- Common Form: O₂ (Diatomic Molecule)
Nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen, with atomic number 7, is an essential component of amino acids and proteins. It is found abundantly in the Earth’s atmosphere.
- Atomic Number: 7
- Number of Protons: 7
- Number of Electrons: 7
- Electronic Configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p³
- Valence Electrons: 5
- Valency: 3
- Molecular Form: N₂ (Triple bond between atoms)
Sulfur (S)
Sulfur is a reactive non-metal with the atomic number 16. It is commonly found in volcanic regions and biological systems.
- Atomic Number: 16
- Number of Protons: 16
- Number of Electrons: 16
- Electronic Configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁴
- Valence Electrons: 6
- Valency: 2, 4, or 6 (depending on the compound)
- Common Forms: S₈ (ring), Sulfides, Sulfates