The spelling of the word "organic chemistry" may seem straightforward, but it can be tricky to pronounce for those unfamiliar with its phonetic transcription. When broken down, the word consists of the phonemes /ɔrˈgænɪk ˈkɛmɪstri/. This means that the first syllable is pronounced with an "aw" sound, followed by a stress on the second syllable with a short "e" sound. The final two syllables are pronounced with a "kem" and "stree" sound respectively. Mastering the correct pronunciation of "organic chemistry" is essential for scientists and students in the field.
Organic chemistry is a branch of chemistry that deals with the study of the structure, properties, composition, reactions, and synthesis of organic compounds. Organic compounds are compounds that contain carbon atoms bonded with other elements, such as hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and halogens. This field of chemistry focuses on understanding the unique behavior and characteristics of carbon-based molecules.
In organic chemistry, the structure of compounds is of paramount importance, as it directly influences their properties and reactivity. Scientists extensively study the arrangement, connectivity, and bonding between carbon atoms and other elements to elucidate the behavior of organic compounds. This involves investigating the different types of bonds, such as single, double, and triple bonds, as well as understanding the presence of functional groups, which are specific arrangements of atoms within a molecule that contribute to its reactivity and chemical properties.
The study of organic chemistry encompasses a wide range of topics, including the classification and nomenclature of organic compounds, the analysis and characterization of organic molecules using spectroscopic techniques, the mechanisms and pathways of chemical reactions, and the design and synthesis of new organic compounds for various applications.
Organic chemistry finds numerous practical applications in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, materials science, agrochemicals, fuels, and polymer chemistry. It plays a crucial role in drug discovery, where chemists design and synthesize organic molecules to develop novel and effective drugs for treating diseases. Overall, organic chemistry is essential for understanding and manipulating the chemistry of carbon compounds, enabling scientists to discover and develop new materials and substances that impact our daily lives.
• The c. of substances containing combustible carbon compounds.
• The chemistry of compounds containing carbon.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "organic" in the context of organic chemistry comes from the Greek word "organikos", meaning "relating to an organ" or "instrumental". The term was originally used to distinguish chemistry that dealt with compounds found in living organisms (organic compounds) from inorganic chemistry, which focused on compounds not derived from living organisms.
In the 18th century, chemists believed that organic compounds could only be produced by living organisms through a vital force. However, in 1828, Friedrich Wöhler synthesized urea, an organic compound that was previously only found in urine, from inorganic materials, challenging the vital force theory and demonstrating that organic compounds could be created artificially.
Over time, the field of chemistry dealing with organic compounds became known as "organic chemistry". Today, it encompasses the study of carbon-based compounds and their properties, structure, composition, reactions, and synthesis.