A carbon skeleton refers to the basic structure of a molecule that consists of a chain or ring of carbon atoms. This framework serves as the backbone for organic compounds, allowing for the attachment of various functional groups, which can influence the molecule's properties and reactivity. The arrangement of these carbon atoms can vary, leading to different types of compounds, such as alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes. In organic chemistry, the carbon skeleton is crucial for understanding how molecules interact and behave. It can be linear, branched, or cyclic, and its configuration plays a significant role in the characteristics of substances like proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. The diversity of carbon skeletons contributes to the vast array of organic compounds found in nature.