The main element found in coal is carbon. Carbon makes up the majority of the organic matter that forms coal, while other elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur are also present in smaller amounts. The percentage of carbon in coal can vary depending on the rank of the coal, with higher-rank coals having a higher carbon content. For example, anthracite coal, which is the highest-rank coal, can contain up to 97% carbon, while lignite, which is the lowest-rank coal, can contain less than 70% carbon.