What is the atomic number of carbon?

The atomic number of an element is defined as the number of protons in the nucleus of its atoms. For carbon, this number is 6, which means that every carbon atom contains 6 protons. The atomic number is fundamental to an element's identity; it determines not only the type of element but also its position on the periodic table. Carbon's atomic number being 6 also explains its unique properties and the fact that it can form a wide variety of compounds, making it essential for organic life.