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Organic Chemistry

Organic chemistry is that subcategory of chemistry that studies compounds that are primarily carbon and hydrogen, with substantial amounts or traces of other elements such as nitrogen, oxygen, and halogens; phosphorus and sulfur also are found in organic compounds. The structures, properties, composition, reactions, and preparation in synthesis or otherwise are all considered part of the venue of organic chemistry.

Organic chemistry was named because the processes and compounds it studies are often related to life processes. Many artificially-produced organic compounds are being worked with today as well. Biochemistry deals specifically with the part of organic chemistry that is related to life processes.

Carbon is the key. It alone among elements often combines in chains with double and triple bonds, also bonding with other elements along the edges. It can form chains, rings, or branches, and multiple isomers that have the same chemical ingredients with very different chemical makeups. Most importantly, many organic molecules can autopropagate; they can reproduce themselves. Life found elsewhere is likely to be carbon based as well because of the special properties of this element (silicon is a possible alternative and behaves in similar ways to some carbon-based molecules in certain archeobacteria.) A substantial amount of organic compounds have been found throughout the universe.

Web Resources On Organic Chemistry

Organic & Biochemical Nomenclature
Organic Chemistry Texts

Book Resources On Organic Chemistry

Organic Chemistry by Morrison, Boyd & Boyd
Organic Chemistry by John E. McMurry

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