While many elements form bonds with carbon by sharing electrons (covalent bonds), some elements do form bonds with carbon by transferring electrons (ionic bonds).

Here's a breakdown:

* Covalent bonds: Most elements that bond with carbon form covalent bonds. This is because carbon has a moderate electronegativity, meaning it doesn't strongly pull electrons towards itself. This results in a sharing of electrons between carbon and the other element. Examples include:

* Hydrogen: Forms hydrocarbons like methane (CH4) and ethane (C2H6)

* Oxygen: Forms carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbohydrates like glucose (C6H12O6)

* Nitrogen: Forms organic molecules like amino acids and proteins

* Ionic bonds: While less common, some elements do form ionic bonds with carbon. This happens when the electronegativity difference between carbon and the other element is large enough for one element to completely "steal" an electron from the other. Examples include:

* Lithium: Forms lithium carbide (Li2C2)

* Sodium: Forms sodium carbide (Na2C2)

* Magnesium: Forms magnesium carbide (Mg2C2)

Therefore, while the statement is partially true, it's important to note that carbon can form both covalent and ionic bonds.