Organic compounds
Organic Compounds
Organic compounds (/ɔːrˈɡænɪk ˈkɒmpaʊndz/) are a large class of chemical compounds that contain carbon atoms. The term "organic" is derived from the Greek word "organikos", meaning "relating to an organ".
Etymology
The term "organic" was first used in the early 19th century by Jöns Jacob Berzelius to describe compounds derived from living organisms. The modern definition, referring to compounds containing carbon atoms, was proposed by Friedrich Wöhler in 1828.
Classification
Organic compounds can be classified into several categories, including:
- Aliphatic compounds: These are organic compounds where carbon atoms are linked in open chains. They can be further divided into alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes.
- Aromatic compounds: These are organic compounds that contain a ring of carbon atoms, known as an aromatic ring. The most common example is benzene.
- Heterocyclic compounds: These are organic compounds that contain a ring structure that includes atoms other than carbon, such as nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur.
- Polymers: These are large molecules made up of repeating subunits, known as monomers. Examples include proteins, nucleic acids, and plastics.
Related Terms
- Inorganic compound: A compound that does not contain carbon atoms.
- Biochemistry: The study of the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms.
- Chemical synthesis: The process of creating a complex molecule from simpler starting materials.
- Molecular structure: The arrangement of atoms within a molecule.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Organic compounds
- Wikipedia's article - Organic compounds
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