5 Questions
Which of the following is the most accurate definition of an organic compound?
A compound that contains carbon
Which of the following compounds is universally considered organic?
Methane (CH4)
What is the discipline known as the study of properties, reactions, and syntheses of organic compounds?
Organic chemistry
Which of the following compounds is generally considered inorganic for historical reasons?
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)
What makes a rigorous definition of an organic compound elusive according to the text?
Lack of consensus among chemists on which carbon-containing compounds are excluded
Study Notes
Organic Compounds
- A definition of an organic compound that is most accurate is a compound that contains carbon and hydrogen atoms, and may also contain other elements such as oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur.
- Methane (CH4) is universally considered an organic compound.
Discipline of Study
- Organic chemistry is the discipline that focuses on the study of properties, reactions, and syntheses of organic compounds.
Inorganic Compounds
- Urea (CO(NH2)2) is generally considered inorganic for historical reasons, despite being a compound that contains carbon.
Definition of Organic Compounds
- A rigorous definition of an organic compound is elusive due to the existence of borderline cases, such as certain carbonate and cyanide compounds that contain carbon but exhibit inorganic properties.
Test your knowledge of organic and inorganic compounds with this quiz. Explore the definition and classification of organic compounds based on carbon-containing molecules and their bonds.
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