What Defines Organic Substances in Chemistry?

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In summary, organic substances are carbon compounds that contain covalent bonds, have a low melting point, are not very soluble in water, and are not stable to hot concentrated sulfuric acid. They are commonly identified through a sulfuric acid test, which produces carbon particles when oxidation occurs. Organic substances do not include oxides, cyanides, or carbonates, and typically have 4+ formal valence of carbon, such as carboxylic acids. However, the simpler definition is any carbon compound excluding carbonates, cyanides and dioxide.
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what is organic substances?
 
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Hello, I think you need very elementary knowledge of organic substances.

Well, if a substance contains covalent bonds rather than ionic, not having a high melting point, not very soluble in water, we may briefly consider it to be a potential organic substance. Organic compounds are not stable to hot concentrated sulfuric acid; and this test is frequently done to search any organic matter in a given substance. If there is some, then some coal-like carbon particles occur due to sulfuric acid's oxidation.

I think that is enough for a person wondering what organic substances are. But we are eager to help you, if you have further questions.

regards, chem_tr
 
  • #3
Carbon compounds not including oxides, cyanides, or carbonates.
 
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but isn't carbon dioxide has a low melting point?
 
  • #5
no idea said:
but isn't carbon dioxide has a low melting point?

As Shawn says, excluding oxides.
 
  • #6
Yes, I agree with Shawn and Janitor and add that any compound containing carbon less than 4+ formal valence (indicator of CO2) might be organic. C4- is characteristic of methane, and C3- is its homolog alkanes; C2- is of ethylene and other terminal alkenes, and so on. When we come to C3+, it is seen with all of carboxylic acids. But the statement "any carbon compound excluding carbonates, cyanides and dioxide" is simpler. Note that nitrile and cyanide are similar in structure, with the difference being covalent and ionic, respectively.

I hope you've gained an idea about organic substances.

Regards, chem_tr
 

FAQ: What Defines Organic Substances in Chemistry?

What are organic substances?

Organic substances are molecules that contain at least one carbon-hydrogen bond. They are found in living organisms and are essential for life processes such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

How are organic substances different from inorganic substances?

The main difference between organic and inorganic substances is the presence of carbon-hydrogen bonds. Inorganic substances do not have these bonds and are typically simpler in structure, while organic substances can have complex structures and can form long chains or rings.

Are all organic substances natural?

No, not all organic substances are natural. While many organic substances are found in nature, some can also be synthesized in laboratories. For example, plastics and pesticides are man-made organic substances.

Can inorganic substances be converted into organic substances?

Yes, inorganic substances can be converted into organic substances through a process called carbon fixation. This involves converting carbon dioxide into organic molecules, such as glucose, through photosynthesis in plants.

Are organic substances always safe for consumption?

No, not all organic substances are safe for consumption. While many organic substances are found in food and are essential for our bodies, some can also be toxic. It is important to know the source and potential risks of consuming organic substances.

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