Organic and Inorganic

Organic vs Inorganic Chemistry

Organic Chemistry

Study of carbon-containing compounds and their properties

Focuses on compounds with carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds

Contains carbon as the primary element

Usually contains hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus

Forms covalent bonds between atoms

Generally has lower melting and boiling points

Often flammable and combustible

Carbohydrates (sugars, starches)

Proteins and amino acids

Lipids and fats

DNA and RNA

Plastics and polymers

Petroleum products (gasoline, diesel)

Soluble in organic solvents (alcohol, ether)

Poor conductors of electricity

Complex molecular structures

Undergo slow chemical reactions

Study of compounds that do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds

Includes all elements and their compounds except most carbon compounds

Does not contain carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds

Contains metals, minerals, and non-carbon elements

Forms ionic or metallic bonds

Generally has higher melting and boiling points

Usually non-flammable

Table salt (sodium chloride - NaCl)

Water (H₂O)

Metals (iron, copper, gold, silver)

Acids (sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid)

Bases (sodium hydroxide, ammonia)

Minerals and rocks

Soluble in water and polar solvents

Good conductors of electricity when dissolved

Simple molecular structures

Undergo fast chemical reactions