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n. 1. Symbol C An abundant nonmetallic element that occurs in many inorganic and in all organic compounds, exists freely in amorphous, graphite, and diamond forms and as a constituent of coal, limestone, and petroleum, and is capable of chemical self-bonding to form an enormous number of chemically, biologically, and commercially important molecules. Other significant allotropes include fullerenes and nanotubes. Atomic number 6; atomic weight 12.011; sublimation point 3,825°C; triple point 4,489°C; specific gravity of amorphous carbon 1.8 to 2.1, of diamond 3.15 to 3.53, of graphite 1.9 to 2.3; valence 2, 3, 4. See Periodic Table. 2. A carbon-containing gas, notably carbon dioxide, or a collection of such gases, especially when considered as a contributor to the greenhouse effect: plans for capturing and sequestering carbon produced by power plants. 3. a. A sheet of carbon paper. b. A carbon copy. 4. Electricity a. Either of two rods through which current flows to form an arc, as in lighting or welding. b. A carbonaceous electrode in an electric cell. [French carbone, from Latin carbō, carbōn-, a coal, charcoal; see ker-3 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] carbon·ous (-bə-nəs) adj. |
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