NEET Chemistry
Carbon: electronic configuration and properties
Carbon has atomic number 6 and electronic configuration [He] 2s2 2p2. Explore its periodic behaviour and open the interactive atom model.
Open Carbon in 3DKey properties of Carbon
- Symbol
- C
- Atomic number
- 6
- Atomic mass
- 12.0107(8)
- Family
- nonmetal
- Electronic configuration
- [He] 2s2 2p2
- Shell distribution
- 2, 4
- Oxidation states
- -4, -3, -2, -1, 1, 2, 3, 4
- Standard state
- solid
Periodic behaviour
Atomic radius: 77 pm. Electronegativity: 2.55. First ionisation energy: 1087 kJ/mol. Use these values comparatively across a period or group rather than memorising them in isolation.
NEET exam focus
For NEET, prioritise the NCERT electronic configuration, periodic position, common oxidation states, and direct trend-based comparisons involving Carbon.
Related nonmetal elements
Frequently asked questions
What is the electronic configuration of Carbon?
Carbon has electronic configuration [He] 2s2 2p2, with shell distribution 2, 4.
What are the oxidation states of Carbon?
The listed oxidation states are -4, -3, -2, -1, 1, 2, 3, 4.
How can I view the Carbon atom in 3D?
PracticeNEET's interactive periodic table provides a rotatable schematic atom with accurate electron populations by shell.