Organic Chemistry: The branch of chemistry focused on carbon-containing compounds.
Studies the structure, properties, reactions, and uses of organic molecules.
Carbon's Unique Properties:
Forms four covalent bonds.
Can create long chains and complex molecular structures.
Key Types of Organic Compounds:
Carbohydrates: Provide energy (e.g., glucose).
Proteins: Build and repair tissues (e.g., enzymes).
Lipids: Store energy and form cell membranes.
Nucleic Acids: Carry genetic information (DNA & RNA).
Greenhouse Effect: Burning fossil fuels emits CO₂ and methane, which traps heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.
Fossil Fuels: Hydrocarbons formed from ancient remains, are energy-rich but contribute to CO₂ emissions.
Carbon naturally cycles between the atmosphere, oceans, and living organisms.
Human activities disrupt this cycle, increasing atmospheric CO₂ levels.
Types:
Hydrocarbons: Compounds of carbon and hydrogen (e.g., methane, propane).
Alcohols: Contain -OH group (e.g., ethanol).
Carboxylic Acids: Contain -COOH group (e.g., acetic acid).
Esters: Often responsible for pleasant smells.
Organic Chemistry: Focuses on carbon-containing compounds, primarily C-H bonds.
Inorganic Chemistry: Studies compounds that do not include C-H bonds, such as metals and salts.
General Characteristics:
Often have low melting and boiling points.
Generally nonpolar and less soluble in water.
Flammable and stable structures.
Pharmaceuticals: Development of medicines.
Materials: Creation of plastics and fibers.
Energy: Production of biofuels.
Agriculture: Design of fertilizers and pesticides.
Types:
Alkanes: Saturated hydrocarbons (single bonds).
Alkenes: Unsaturated hydrocarbons (double bonds).
Alkynes: Unsaturated hydrocarbons (triple bonds).
Cycloalkanes: Ring-structured alkanes.
Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Have a benzene ring.
Compounds containing Oxygen:
Alcohols: Hydroxyl group (-OH).
Ethers: Two alkyl groups bound to oxygen.
Aldehydes and Ketones: Carbonyl group (-CO).
Carboxylic Acids: Carboxyl group (-COOH).
Esters: Contain -COO group.
Compounds containing Nitrogen:
Amines: Contain -NH2 group.
Amides: Derived from carboxylic acids, used in various industries.