Carbon, which has four electrons in its outer shell, commonly forms covalent bonds with several other elements. Here are three elements that carbon frequently bonds with:
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Hydrogen (H) - Carbon can form four single bonds with hydrogen atoms, creating molecules like methane (CH4).
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Oxygen (O) - Carbon can form double bonds with oxygen, as seen in carbon dioxide (CO2) or single bonds in alcohols and organic acids.
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Nitrogen (N) - Carbon can form triple bonds with nitrogen, as in cyanide (CN⁻), or single bonds in amines and amino acids.
These elements are part of the building blocks of various organic molecules and are vital for life.