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What property of carbon makes it essential for organic life?

a) High electronegativity
b) Versatility in forming bonds
c) Low reactivity
d) Inertness to other elements

2 Answers

7 votes

Answer: B) Versatility in forming bonds

Explanation: Almost all organic compounds have either carbon or a carbon chain at the center of their Lewis Structure. It has the ability to form four covalent bonds and forms double and triple bonds easily as long as no halogen is present. Due to these facts, I would say B) is the most likely answer.

User Narek Mamikonyan
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Final answer:

Carbon is essential for organic life due to its versatility in forming bonds.

Step-by-step explanation:

Carbon is essential for organic life due to its versatility in forming bonds. Carbon atoms have four valence electrons, allowing them to form four covalent bonds with other atoms or molecules. This allows carbon to create a vast number of diverse molecular species necessary for the structures and functions of living organisms. For example, carbon can form long chains or ringed structures, and make single, double, or triple covalent bonds with other elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and halogens.

User Liggi
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