What is the atomic number of carbon?

The atomic number of an element is defined as the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element. For carbon, this number is 6. Therefore, the atomic number indicates that carbon has six protons, which also corresponds to the number of electrons in a neutral atom of carbon, thus determining its chemical behavior and properties.

Understanding the atomic number is essential as it is fundamental to the arrangement of elements in the periodic table, where elements are organized by their atomic numbers. This understanding is crucial for topics such as chemical bonding, reactions, and the structure of molecules. Carbon, with its six protons, is a vital element in organic chemistry; it forms the basis of life through its ability to bond with other elements in various configurations.