Final answer:
Carbon bonds with hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus to form the basis of biomolecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carbon's Role in Biomolecules
Carbon is the main element in organic compounds due to its unique ability to form four covalent bonds with a variety of elements. This bonding property allows for the creation of complex biomolecules that are essential for life. The four key elements that carbon frequently bonds with in biomolecules include hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
These elements are part of the so-called 'biogenic elements' which also include sulfur and are often referenced with the acronym CHNOPS. Together, these elements form the basic building blocks of the major classes of organic molecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Each class plays a vital role in cell structure and function, making them crucial to sustaining life.