Organic Chemistry — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Also Known As	Organic chemistry, carbon compound chemistry, carbon-hydrogen chemistry

What is Organic Chemistry?

The branch of chemistry that studies carbon-containing compounds, including their structure, properties, reactions, and synthesis. Organic chemistry encompasses hydrocarbons, functional group chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and the chemistry of biological molecules.

Properties & Characteristics

Organic chemistry is the branch of chemistry that studies carbon-containing compounds, particularly those with C-H bonds. Carbon's unique ability to form four stable covalent bonds and to catenate (form long chains and rings) results in enormous structural diversity. Organic chemistry encompasses: aliphatic compounds, aromatic compounds, heterocyclic compounds, organometallic compounds, and natural products. Key functional groups drive the reactivity of organic compounds.

Uses & Applications

Organic chemistry is the scientific basis of: pharmaceutical synthesis (most drugs are organic), materials science (plastics, fibres, rubbers, adhesives), agricultural chemicals (pesticides, herbicides), food chemistry, fuels (petroleum hydrocarbons), dyes and pigments, and biotechnology (organic molecules as substrates for enzymes and biosynthesis).

Safety Information

Organic compounds include the most hazardous substances known: nerve agents, dioxins, aflatoxins, and organochlorine pesticides are acutely or chronically toxic organic compounds. Organic solvents are flammable and many are carcinogenic. The huge diversity of organic compounds requires individual hazard assessment rather than group generalisations.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Organic Chemistry

Index All "O" terms

Synonyms Organic chemistry, carbon compound chemistry, carbon-hydrogen chemistry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Organic Chemistry?

The branch of chemistry that studies carbon-containing compounds, including their structure, properties, reactions, and synthesis. Organic chemistry encompasses hydrocarbons, functional group chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and the chemistry of biological molecules.

What is Organic Chemistry used for?

Is Organic Chemistry hazardous?

More "O" Terms

Octahedral ML₆ Octane Number Octet Rule Octet Rule Oganesson Og Oil Open Sextet Open System Optical Activity Optical Isomers Optical Isomers Orbital ψ(r,θ,φ): quantum wavefunction squared gives probability density

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