Carbon has a valency of four, meaning it can form up to four covalent bonds with other atoms. This valency is a result of carbon having four electrons in its outer shell, and it seeks to achieve a stable octet by sharing electrons in its bonds. The ability to form four bonds allows carbon to create diverse and complex molecular structures. Carbon’s tetravalency contributes to its role as the backbone of organic compounds, forming stable and varied bonds with other elements. This characteristic valency is fundamental to the extensive and unique bonding capabilities of carbon in organic chemistry.