Unit A

Organic Chemistry


Introduction


Organic chemistry is a major branch of chemistry that deals with the study of organic compounds. In the early study of chemistry, organic compounds were defined as only those compounds produced by living things (hence the name "organic"). Today, however, we regard organic chemistry to be the chemistry of carbon and its compounds. This definition includes carbon compounds produced by living things and carbon compounds that are manufactured, such as plastics. Realize, however, that most manufactured carbon compounds are derived from fossil fuels. Recall from previous courses that fossil fuels resulted from decaying plant and animal matter (that is, previously living matter).


Fig. 1  pumpjack


Fig. 2  organic molecule


Fig. 3   plastics



   Unit A consists of two modules:

 

Module 1


Structure and Properties of Hydrocarbons

Module 2


Organic Reactions of Hydrocarbons and Hydrocarbon Derivatives

 



Key Concepts  


Organic molecules are carbon-containing compounds. 

Organic molecules that contain only carbon and hydrogen are known as hydrocarbons. Examples are shown below.


Fig. 4   methane


Fig. 5  ethane

 


       Other organic compounds, however, contain other atoms in addition to carbon and hydrogen. These compounds are known as hydrocarbon derivatives. As an example, study the hydrocarbon derivative shown below. In addition to carbon and hydrogen, notice the oxygen atoms. Hydrocarbon derivatives can also contain other atoms such as halogen atoms, sulfur and nitrogen (for example). You will learn much more about hydrocarbon derivatives in Module 2.


Fig. 6   hydrocarbon derivative

You should be aware that some carbon-containing compounds are not considered organic. It is best to commit the names of these inorganic compounds to memory:

      • oxides, such as CO(g) and CO2(g)

      • ionic compounds of carbon, such as those that contain carbonate, cyanide, and carbide ions i.e.  K2CO3(s), LiCN(s) , and Be2C(s)

Check Your Understanding


Can you identify organic compounds? Complete "Section 9.1" question 1 on page 361 of the textbook and then check your work by clicking on the banner beneath.

Page 361 Section 9.1 Question 1

  1. inorganic
  2. organic
  3. inorganic
  4. organic
  5. organic
  6. inorganic
  7. inorganic
  8. organic

Virtual Investigation

If you have not done so already, download a copy of the Module 1 Summative Assessment.  As you view this Virtual Investigation, "Properties of Organic and Inorganic Compounds", record your data in Question 1.