* Carbon (C) is an element, typically found as solid graphite or diamond.
* Oxygen (O₂) is a diatomic gas, meaning it exists as two oxygen atoms bonded together.
* Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a compound formed when carbon and oxygen combine.
The reaction you're describing is actually the burning of carbon, which is a combustion reaction. Here's how it works:
Reactants:
* Carbon (C)
* Oxygen (O₂)
Products:
* Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)
The Chemical Equation:
```
C + O₂ → CO₂
```
This equation means that one carbon atom reacts with one oxygen molecule to produce one carbon dioxide molecule.
Important Note: This reaction releases energy in the form of heat and light, which is why you see flames when you burn something.
