Why Are All Life Forms Carbon-Based?

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All known life forms on Earth are carbon-based due to carbon's unique ability to form stable bonds with various elements, allowing for complex organic molecules essential for life. Carbon's versatility enables the formation of long chains and rings, which are critical for biological processes. While there are hypothetical discussions about silicon-based life forms, no evidence has been found to support their existence. The role of water as a solvent is also crucial, as it facilitates biochemical reactions, making it unlikely for life to thrive without it. The search for non-carbon-based life continues to be a topic of scientific interest, particularly in astrobiology.
flyingpig
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Homework Statement



I have no real experience in biology, so forgive me.

Why exactly are all life carbon based? What's so special about carbon?

Are there lifeforms where they don't need water to live?

I've heard about lifeforms on asteroid that are silicon based, is that true?
 
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