What do diamonds and coal have in common? What are fullerenes, buckyballs, and nanotubes? How many chips can you get on a silicon wafer? Find out the answers to these and other fascinating questions in 'Carbon and the Elements of Group 14'. This book explores the nature of carbon and its part in the life of animals and plants. See the unique way carbon atoms join together and link with other elements to form a large number of different compounds. Additional elements in the group, such as germanium, tin, and lead, are also examined. You will also learn how these elements have affected the electronics, communications, and petroleum industries.