Organic
Definition and meaning of Organic in chemistry.
Organic refers to chemical compounds that contain carbon atoms linked together in specific arrangements. These molecules almost always contain direct chemical bonds between carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms. It is also the specific branch of chemistry dedicated to studying these unique carbon compounds.
In more detail
The term organic has a very specific technical meaning inside a chemistry classroom. It has absolutely nothing to do with how food is grown on a natural farm. Historically, scientists believed these complex compounds could only be created by living plants and animals.
They thought a special vital force was required to assemble the carbon atoms. A chemist named Friedrich Wöhler famously proved this vital force theory wrong in 1828. He synthesized an organic molecule called urea using purely non-living chemical ingredients in his lab.
Modern organic chemistry now covers almost all molecular structures that contain a carbon framework. Carbon is incredibly special because it has four available chemical spots for forming bonds. It can form remarkably strong covalent bonds with up to four other distinct atoms.
Carbon atoms can easily bond with each other to build incredibly long atomic chains. They can also fold into complex geometric rings and massive three-dimensional molecular frameworks. This unique flexibility allows carbon to create tens of millions of distinctly different structural molecules.
Organic chemistry literally forms the molecular foundation for all known life on planet Earth. DNA, proteins, and structural carbohydrates are all massive organic molecules built around carbon skeletons. We also completely rely on organic chemistry to power and build our modern industrial society. Almost all commercial fuels, synthetic plastics, and modern medical drugs are organic carbon compounds.
Key facts
| Field | Organic Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Central element | Carbon |
| Defining feature | Direct carbon-hydrogen bonds |
| Historical origin | Believed to come only from living things |
| Exceptions | Carbon dioxide and carbonates are inorganic |
| Total known compounds | Tens of millions |
Propane is a simple organic compound heavily used as a fuel for outdoor barbecue grills. The chemical formula for a single molecule of propane is written as C3H8. The molecule consists of a straight central backbone made of three connected carbon atoms. Eight hydrogen atoms are securely bonded around the outside of this short carbon chain. This central skeleton of carbon strongly bonded to hydrogen makes propane a classic organic molecule.
Frequently asked questions
Are all chemical compounds that contain carbon considered organic?
No. A few simple carbon-based molecules are historically classified as inorganic. Carbon dioxide gas and solid calcium carbonate are two very common examples of inorganic carbon.
Does organic chemistry mean the chemicals are safe and natural?
Not at all. Many highly toxic and completely lab-synthesized chemicals are strictly organic. The term organic simply means the molecules are built around a connected carbon skeleton.
Why can carbon form so many different types of complex compounds?
Carbon atoms can form four remarkably strong chemical bonds at the exact same time. This allows carbon to easily bond to itself to create endless chains and complex three-dimensional rings.