Carbon plays a central role in living organisms because it can combine in many ways with itself and other elements like hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur. Living things are made up of molecules consisting largely of these elements. Carbon forms the backbone of these molecules, allowing them to link together into the large and complex molecules that make up structures and carry out functions in organisms. Examples of large molecules found in living things include DNA, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, while small molecules include water and salt.