Why is carbon so versatile in its ability to bond?
Carbon is very versatile because of the amount of electrons it has to share. Since Carbon needs 8 electrons to fill its valence shells, it can form up to four bonds. This could be in the form of 4 single bonds, 2 double bonds, a single bond with a triple bond, or several different combinations. This versatility in the ability to bond allows carbon to form a myriad of different compounds, which allows it to be the element of life.
