Organic compounds

Organic Compounds

An organic compound is a type of chemical compound that contains carbon atoms. These compounds are primarily found in living organisms, hence the term "organic," but they can also be synthesized in the laboratory.

History

The study of organic compounds is central to the field of organic chemistry. Historically, organic compounds were thought to be those that could only be synthesized by living organisms. This belief was debunked in the 19th century by Friedrich Wöhler, who synthesized urea, an organic compound, from inorganic materials in the laboratory.

Structure and Properties

Organic compounds are characterized by their carbon-based structure. Carbon atoms can form strong covalent bonds with other carbon atoms, creating long chains or rings of atoms. This ability to form complex structures is one of the reasons for the vast diversity of organic compounds.

The properties of organic compounds can vary greatly depending on their structure. Some are gases at room temperature, while others are solids or liquids. Some are highly reactive, while others are stable under most conditions. Many organic compounds, such as sugars and amino acids, are essential for life.

Classification

Organic compounds can be classified in several ways, including by the functional groups they contain, their structure, and their properties. Some common classes of organic compounds include alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, esters, and amines.

Uses

Organic compounds have a wide range of uses in society. They are used in the production of plastics, detergents, dyes, drugs, and fuels. They are also used in the food industry as flavorings and preservatives.

See Also

• Inorganic compound
• Biochemistry
• Organic synthesis
• Polymer