Organic chemistry is a subdiscipline within chemistry involving the scientific study of the structure, properties, composition, reactions, and preparation (by synthesis or by other means) of carbon-based compounds, hydrocarbons, and their derivatives. These compounds may contain any number of other elements, including hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, the halogens as well as phosphorus, silicon, and sulfur.
Organic compounds form the basis of all earthly life. They are structurally diverse. The range of application of organic compounds is enormous. They either form the basis of, or are important constituents of, many products including plastics, drugs, petrochemicals, food, explosive material, and paints.
Read more about Organic Chemistry: History, Characterization, Properties, Nomenclature, Organic Synthesis, Organic Reactions
Famous quotes containing the words organic and/or chemistry:
“A special feature of the structure of our book is the monstrous but perfectly organic part that eavesdropping plays in it.”
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