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The element that must be present in a molecule for it to be considered organic is carbon. Organic molecules are built primarily on a carbon skeleton or backbone, often with hydrogen atoms attached.

Carbon is critical to the formation of organisms for several reasons. First, carbon's unique properties, like having four electrons in its outermost energy level, permit it to form strong covalent bonds with various elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. This flexibility allows carbon to create a vast array of complex and diverse molecules that are crucial for life. Furthermore, carbon's ability to form long and stable chains and rings enables it to create large and complex molecules like proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, which are essential for the structure and function of organisms. In summary, carbon's versatility in forming strong and stable bonds and complex structures lays the foundation for many biological substances that are required for life.