A compound primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen, often also containing oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and halogens. Organic compounds form the basis of life and include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Millions of organic compounds are known.
Properties & Characteristics
An organic compound is a chemical compound containing carbon atoms, typically with C-H bonds, although carbonates, carbides, oxides of carbon (CO, CO₂), and cyanides are conventionally classified as inorganic. The majority of organic compounds also contain oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and halogens. With over 10 million known organic compounds, they represent the vast majority of all known chemicals. Organic compounds are the chemical basis of all life.
Organic compounds vary enormously in hazard. Flammability is common (most organic compounds burn). Many are toxic or carcinogenic. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are air pollutants and occupational health hazards. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) accumulate in ecosystems. Each organic compound requires individual safety assessment.
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
A compound primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen, often also containing oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and halogens. Organic compounds form the basis of life and include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Millions of organic compounds are known.
Organic compounds vary enormously in hazard. Flammability is common (most organic compounds burn). Many are toxic or carcinogenic. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are air pollutants and occupational health hazards. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) accumulate in ecosystems. Each organic compoun…
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature,
CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA,
and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified
professionals before handling chemicals.
