The chemical symbol for carbon is "C." In the periodic table, carbon is a non-metal element located in group 14 and is essential for life as we know it. Carbon atoms have the unique ability to form stable bonds with other elements, particularly with hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, allowing it to create a vast array of organic compounds. This versatility is the foundation of biochemistry, as it is a primary component of proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. Carbon's importance extends beyond biology, as it is also a key player in various industrial processes and materials.