Question

carbon is known as the \element of life\ because it: can dissolve many substances forms the backbone of all organic molecules produces oxygen during photosynthesis exists only in living organisms

Explanation:

Carbon is called the "element of life" because it forms the backbone of all organic molecules. Organic molecules (like carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids) are essential for life processes. Carbon's ability to form covalent bonds (it can form four covalent bonds) allows for the diversity and complexity of these organic molecules.

• The option "Can dissolve many substances" is incorrect. Water is known for its ability to dissolve many substances (as a universal solvent), not carbon.
• The option "Produces oxygen during photosynthesis" is incorrect. During photosynthesis, plants use carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) and water (\(H_2O\)) to produce glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) and oxygen (\(O_2\)). The oxygen comes from water, not carbon.
• The option "Exists only in living organisms" is incorrect. Carbon exists in non - living things too. For example, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, carbonates in rocks (like calcium carbonate \(CaCO_3\) in limestone).

Answer:

Forms the backbone of all organic molecules