It would be impossible for life on earth to exist without carbon. Carbon is the main component of sugars, proteins, fats, DNA, muscle tissue, pretty much everything in your body. The reason carbon is so special is down to the electron configuration of the individual atoms.

What would happen if there is no carbon?

If there were an interruption in the carbon cycle, life on Earth as we know it would be in danger of being disrupted. ... Without carbon dioxide, the plants would not do as well, and potentially die, creating a problem for all the animals on the planet, Since they have to breathe oxygen to live.

Do you need carbon for life?

A compound found mainly in living things is known as an organic compound. Organic compounds make up the cells and other structures of organisms and carry out life processes. Carbon is the main element in organic compounds, so carbon is essential to life on Earth. Without carbon, life as we know it could not exist.