carbon is a unique element as it exists in nature in abundant form. It is found in all organic compounds. Carbon is present in all food items we eat. Carbon exists in different valencies/ oxidation states.
Carbon atoms are unique because they can bond together to form very long, durable chains that can have branches or rings of various sizes and often contain thousands of carbon atoms. Silicon and a few other elements can form similar chains; but they are generally shorter, and much less durable.
