Which statement best illustrates why carbon is so important to living things? carbon occurs as a solid, a liquid, and a gas. carbon is found in both the living and nonliving worlds. carbon is stored in large quantities in fossil fuels. carbon-based macromolecules are found in all life forms.

Answer;

D.Carbon-based macromolecules are found in all life forms.

Explanation;

-Most molecules that make up living things are based on carbon atoms. The structure of a carbon atom allows it to form up to four covalent bonds. It can bond to other carbons or to different atoms.

-All organisms are made of four types of carbon-based molecules; carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Carbohydrates are molecules made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Sugars and starches are both types of carbohydrates. These carbohydrates can be broken down to produce energy in cells. Some carbohydrates are part of cell structure in plants.

-Lipids are molecules that include fats, oils, and cholesterol. Lipids are nonpolar, so they do not dissolve in water. Like carbohydrates, most lipids are made of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms. Some lipids are broken down and used as energy in cells.

-Proteins are the most varied of the carbon-based molecules in organisms. There are many different types of proteins. They are involved in many different body functions including movement, eyesight, and digestion.

thermophiles, notice the prefix thermo.