Which statement defines an organic compound?

Which statement defines an organic compound?

• A. Conducts electricity
• B. Is always inorganic
• C. Has no carbon
• D. Contains carbon

Answer: (D)

Organic compounds are defined by containing carbon atoms. Carbon’s ability to form four covalent bonds with many elements lets it build long chains, rings, and a vast variety of structures, which is why carbon is the signature element of organic chemistry. If a substance contains carbon, it fits the common definition of an organic compound; if it has no carbon, it doesn’t. The property of conduction or the claim that something is always inorganic aren’t defining features of organic compounds.

Organic compounds are defined by containing carbon atoms. Carbon’s ability to form four covalent bonds with many elements lets it build long chains, rings, and a vast variety of structures, which is why carbon is the signature element of organic chemistry. If a substance contains carbon, it fits the common definition of an organic compound; if it has no carbon, it doesn’t. The property of conduction or the claim that something is always inorganic aren’t defining features of organic compounds.