The element carbon has been known since ancient times, but its formal discovery as a distinct element took place in the 18th century. The scientist credited with defining carbon as an element is Antoine Lavoisier, a French chemist who is often referred to as the ‘father of modern chemistry.’
Before Lavoisier’s work, carbon was recognized in the form of charcoal and soot, but it was not classified as an element. He helped to identify it by demonstrating that it could not be broken down into simpler substances through chemical means. Lavoisier’s methods included precise measurements and the study of chemical reactions, which laid the groundwork for modern chemistry.
In summary, while carbon in various forms has been known since antiquity, Antoine Lavoisier played a pivotal role in establishing carbon as a distinct chemical element in the late 18th century.