
Represented by the atomic number 6 and the symbol C, carbon is an important chemical element classified as tetravalent and nonmetallic. It is one of the longest existing elements known today. The most popular allotropes of carbon are amorphous carbon, diamond and graphite. It is widely used in the petrochemical industry, specifically in producing kerosene as well as gasoline. In addition to these interesting details, it is good to learn other valuable information about this all-important element such as who discovered carbon.
The Discovery of Carbon
Who discovered carbon? Although this element was discovered in prehistory, several individuals contributed to a clearer knowledge about its different properties and characteristics. For instance, French scientist Rene A. F. de Reaumur first showed in 1722 that through the absorption of carbon, it was possible to transform iron into steel. By 1772, the father of modern chemistry Antoine Lavoisier discovered that diamonds were in a way one...






