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

Also Known As	Carbon compound, organic molecule, organic substance, carbon-based compound

What is Organic Compound?

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.

Uses & Applications

Organic compounds encompass: pharmaceuticals (aspirin, penicillin, morphine), polymers (polyethylene, nylon, DNA), fuels (methane, octane), solvents (ethanol, acetone, DCM), dyes (indigo, alizarin), agrochemicals, flavours, fragrances, and all biomolecules (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids).

Safety Information

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.

Key Facts

Term Organic Compound

Index All "O" terms

Synonyms Carbon compound, organic molecule, organic substance, carbon-based compound

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Organic Compound?

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.

What is Organic Compound used for?

Is Organic Compound 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

View all "O" terms →