Carbon-based molecules

Carbon-based molecules are organic compounds primarily composed of carbon atoms, often bonded with hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other elements. They form the backbone of essential biological structures, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Because carbon can form stable bonds with many elements and itself, it serves as a versatile building block for a wide variety of molecules. This unique ability enables the complexity required for life, allowing carbon-based molecules to play crucial roles in processes like energy storage, cellular structure, and genetic information storage. Overall, they are foundational to all known life forms on Earth.