Final answer:
Living things need carbon for building organic molecules, as an energy source, and for the cycling of carbon.
Step-by-step explanation:
Living things need carbon for several reasons:
- Building block of organic molecules: Carbon is the foundation element for all organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These are essential for the structure and function of living organisms.
- Energy source: Carbon-containing molecules, like glucose, are broken down during cellular respiration to release energy for various biological processes.
- Cycling of carbon: Carbon is part of the carbon cycle, where it moves between various reservoirs, such as the atmosphere, plants, animals, and the Earth's crust. This cycling is necessary for the balance of carbon in ecosystems.
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