Organic Chemistry Introduction

Characteristics of Life

Cellular Organization
• Every living thing is made of cells, the "building blocks of life."
• Metabolism is the body's constant activity, transforming food into energy.

Growth and Development
• Life's growth is a way of expressing itself.
• Reproduction is the process of making more of oneself.

Response to Stimuli
• Every living thing reacts to its environment.
• Every living thing has feelings.

Homeostasis
• Life is about balance.
• It keeps things "just right."
• Over generations, living things adapt to their environment.

Atom to Organism

• Life starts at the atom level and works its way up to an entire organism.

• Atoms are the tiniest building blocks of everything.

• Molecules form molecules, some simple (water, H₂O) and others like DNA.

• Organelles are mini powerhouses and factories within cells.

• Cells are the main characters of life.

• Tissues form organs, like the heart, brain, and lungs.

• Organ systems work together to create systems.

• Organisms are the final masterpiece, made up of all these smaller parts working together.

Organic Molecules:

• Carbon-based, found in all living things.
• Complex structures, often forming large molecules like DNA, proteins, and fats.
• Flammable, with many organic molecules able to burn.
• Mostly covalent bonds, holding atoms together by strong, shared-electron bonds.
• Found in living organisms, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

Inorganic Molecules:

• Not Carbon-Based, with exceptions like CO₂ and carbonates.
• Simpler structures, typically smaller and less complex than organic molecules.
• Some have ionic or covalent bonds, like salts.
• Non-flamable, with most inorganic molecules not igniting.
• Found everywhere, from the body to rocks, oceans, and air.
• Examples include water, minerals, gases, and salts.

Key differences at a Glance

Fun Analogy:

Think of organic molecules as the flashy main cast in a movie—they’re the ones doing all the big, dramatic stuff in life. Inorganic molecules are the quiet but crucial crew behind the scenes, making sure everything runs smoothly. Without them, the show wouldn’t even exist!