Which of the following is NOT a property of carbon?

Carbon is a unique and versatile element in biochemistry largely due to its tetravalent nature, meaning it has four valence electrons that allow it to form four covalent bonds with other atoms. This tetravalency enables carbon to create a vast array of structures, including long chains and complex branched formations, leading to the formation of polymers.

Moreover, carbon is capable of forming cyclic compounds, which are essential in many biological molecules, such as sugars and certain amino acids. Additionally, carbon can form double and triple bonds, which contribute to the diversity and reactivity of organic compounds.

The assertion that carbon has only three bonds is incorrect, as carbon can indeed form four bonds. This tetravalent capability is foundational to its role in forming a variety of organic molecules and allows it to participate in a multitude of reactions that are essential for life. Thus, the characteristic of having only three bonds does not align with the established properties of carbon.