What is Organic Chemistry?

Organic chemistry studies carbon-based compounds. Carbon's unique ability to form four stable bonds allows for the vast diversity of organic molecules that form the basis of life and modern materials.

Why Carbon?

Carbon forms four covalent bonds, allowing complex chains and rings. Carbon-carbon bonds are strong and stable. Carbon bonds with hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other elements create countless compounds.

Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons contain only carbon and hydrogen. Alkanes (single bonds), alkenes (double bonds), alkynes (triple bonds), and aromatic rings (benzene-like structures) are the foundation of organic chemistry.

Functional Groups

Functional groups give organic molecules their characteristic properties: hydroxyl (-OH) in alcohols, carboxyl (-COOH) in acids, amino (-NH₂) in amines, and carbonyl (C=O) in aldehydes and ketones.

Applications

Organic chemistry is essential for pharmaceuticals, plastics, fuels, food additives, dyes, and all living organisms. It bridges chemistry with biology and materials science.