One of the most common elements in the universe, carbon is now utilized in many ways. The element is extracted from coal deposits. It is classified with group 14 of the periodic table. The following are some of the common applications of this non-metallic element.

Frequent Uses of Carbon

Heat resistant devices, tools and metal cutters have carbon built in. The metal is also used in cooling systems and machinery. Carbon monoxide is employed as a reduction agent. This is necessary to get compounds and other elements.

As carbon dioxide, it can be found in dry ice, fire extinguishers, carbonated and fizzy drinks. Vegetal carbon is sometimes used as a gas absorbent or bleaching agent. The same element is utilized as a decorative tool for jewelry. Many inkjet printers employ carbon as ink base. It is applied as a black fume pigment in car rims.

Application of Carbon Element

Graphite is one of the three carbon allotropes. It is one of the softest and most versatile. It is used in steel processing, pencil lead and lubricant. The carbon diamond element has many industrial and commercial uses. It is the hardest. It is also considered as one of the most precious gemstones in the world. Aside from being a valued piece of jewelry, diamonds are also used for cutting.

The Human Body and Carbon

Humans need this element in various phases of their development. The element functions as a body macronutrient. All parts of the body have carbon traces. Intricate life processes use the element as a building block. Without carbon, the atoms in the human body will disperse.

What is Carbon Dating?

This technique is used to determine the age of minerals and fossils. Carbon-14 is a radioactive isotope. It is the element that is used to perform this activity. Carbon dating is applicable on deceased life forms; it cannot be used for rocks.

Other Uses of Carbon

One of its major applications is in the shape of hydrocarbons as crude oil or methane gas. The former is used to produce kerosene and gasoline via distillation. When in coke form, the element can turn iron ore to 100% iron. The nonmetallic element can be mixed with titanium, boron, tungsten or silicon.