Table of Contents
Definition – Organic Chemistry
- Definition of Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-containing molecules. These molecules can be simple, like methane (CH 4 ), or incredibly complex, like the proteins in our bodies. Organic molecules can be found in all sorts of places, from the food we eat to the air we breathe.
- Organic molecules are usually distinguished from inorganic molecules by their carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds. Inorganic molecules typically don’t contain these bonds, which is why they often look different from organic molecules. For example, inorganic molecules often have a metallic shine, while organic molecules often have a brown or black color.
- Organic molecules are also distinguished by their carbon-carbon (C-C) bonds. These bonds are incredibly strong and allow organic molecules to form incredibly complex structures.
The Theory of Vitalism
The theory of vitalism is the belief that there is a life force that animates living things and that this force is not reducible to the laws of physics and chemistry. This life force is often called “vitalism.” Proponents of vitalism argue that there is something special about living things that cannot be explained by the laws of physics and chemistry. For example, living things are able to reproduce and grow, and they are able to respond to their environment. Vitalism is an ancient idea that was first proposed by the Greek philosopher Aristotle.
Importance of Organic Chemistry
- Organic chemistry is the study of the structure, properties, and reactions of organic molecules. It is a branch of chemistry that deals with the carbon-hydrogen bond and other carbon-containing compounds.
- Organic molecules are found in all life forms and are essential for life. They are used in the manufacture of drugs, plastics, and other materials. Organic chemistry is also used to study the molecules that make up DNA and RNA.
Classification of Organic Compounds
Organic compounds are classified according to the functional groups they contain. The most common functional groups are alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and esters.
The Hybridisation of Organic Compounds
In organic chemistry, the hybridisation of organic compounds is the process of mixing the orbitals of the atoms that make up the molecule in order to achieve a stable electron configuration. This is done in order to minimise the energy of the molecule and to stabilise the electron configuration. There are three types of hybridisation: sp, sp2, and sp3.
Relevance of Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry is the study of the structures, properties and reactions of carbon-containing molecules. It is a critical foundation for the study of biochemistry, pharmacology and material science. Organic chemistry is also essential for the synthesis of new molecules for use in drug discovery and other industrial applications.
