Organic chemistry is a branch of chemistry that involves the study of
organic carbon compounds. It encompasses the structures, composition,
and synthesis of carbon-containing compounds. In understanding organic
chemistry, it is important to note that all organic molecules consist
not only of carbon, but also contain hydrogen. While it is true that
organic compounds can contain other elements, the bond between carbon
and hydrogen is what makes a compound organic.
Originally,
organic chemistry was defined as the study of compounds created by
living organisms. However, its definition has been enlarged to include
artificially synthesized substances as well. Before 1828, all organic
compounds were obtained from living organisms. Scientists didn’t believe
it was possible to synthesize organic compounds from inorganic
compounds. Many attempted to do so and failed. However, in 1828, urea
was synthesized from inorganic substances, paving the way for a new
definition of organic chemistry.
There are more than six million
known organic compounds. In addition to being plentiful, organic
compounds are also unique. This is because carbon atoms have the ability
to form strong bonds with many different elements. Carbon atoms are
also able to bond covalently to other carbon atoms, while simultaneously
forming strong bonds with other nonmetal atoms. When carbon atoms bond
together, they can form chains consisting of thousands of atoms. They
can also form rings, spheres, and tubes.
Many individuals
consider organic chemistry to be very complicated and unrelated to daily
life. Though the study of organic chemistry may be complex, it is very
important to everyday life. In fact, organic compounds are a part of
everything, from the foods we eat to the products we use. They are
important in the creation of clothing, plastics, fibers, medications,
insecticides, petroleum-derived chemicals, and a long list of products
used to support life and to make it more convenient.
The study of
organic chemistry is important, not only to those who are interested in
science-related careers, but to every individual alive today and to
those who will be born in the future. Organic chemistry is key in
developing new products and improving those on which we’ve become
dependent. Each year, organic chemists make discoveries that are helpful
in improving medicines, aiding agricultural growth, understanding the
human body, and performing countless tasks important to the average
person.