Which is the central element for all living things?

Subject : Chemistry

Question: Which is the central element for all living things?

A) Carbon

B) Hydrogen

C) Oxygen

D) Nitrogen

Expert Verified Solution:

The correct answer is:

A) Carbon

Explanation:

Carbon is the central element for all living things because it is the fundamental building block of organic molecules. Carbon atoms can form four covalent bonds, allowing them to bond with other carbon atoms and various elements to create complex molecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These organic molecules are essential for the structure and function of all living organisms, making carbon the central element in all biological chemistry.

While hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen are also crucial for life, carbon’s ability to form stable and diverse organic compounds makes it uniquely essential for the structure and diversity of life.