Carbon is the sixth element on the periodic table. It has six protons, six neutrons, and four electrons. Carbon occurs naturally in both free and combined states, such as carbon dioxide and carbonate. Carbon is a tetravalent element that forms multiple bonds and catenates, or self-links, allowing it to form long chains and rings. This property of catenation and its ability to form isomers are important to carbon's role in daily life. The three main allotropes of pure carbon are diamond, graphite, and buckminsterfullerene. Diamond has a tetrahedral structure and is the hardest natural material. Graphite has layered structure and is used as lubricant. Buckminsterfullerene