(Latin: carbo, charcoal) Carbon, an element of prehistoric discovery, is very widelydistributed in nature. It is found in abundance in the sun, stars, comets, and atmospheresof most planets. Carbon in the form of microscopic diamonds is found in some meteorites.

Natural diamonds are found in kimberlite of ancient volcanic "pipes," foundin South Africa, Arkansas, and elsewhere. Diamonds are now also being recovered from theocean floor off the Cape of Good Hope. About 30% of all industrial diamonds used in theU.S. are now made synthetically.

The energy of the sun and stars can be attributed at least in part to the well-knowncarbon-nitrogen cycle.