Carbon is a non-metallic element that is the basis of all known life on Earth. It is the sixth most abundant element in the universe and makes up approximately 0.032% of the Earth's crust. Carbon is found in many different forms, including diamonds, graphite, and coal. It is also a major component of organic molecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Carbon is essential for photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy.