How many other atoms can a carbon atom bond with?

A carbon atom is unique in its ability to form stable bonds with a variety of other atoms, primarily due to its tetravalency. This means that a carbon atom can form four covalent bonds with other atoms. The four electrons in its outermost shell allow carbon to bond with four other atoms, creating diverse and complex molecules.

This tetravalency is crucial for the structure of organic compounds and contributes to the diversity of life, as it enables the formation of long carbon chains and rings essential for macromolecules like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Therefore, the capacity of a carbon atom to bond with four other atoms is foundational to the chemistry of life.