Question

Classify each compound as organic or inorganic.$$ \mathrm{a} . \mathrm{C}_{8} \mathrm{H}_{18} \quad \text { b. } \mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{NH}_{2} \quad \text { c. } \mathrm{CaO} \quad \text { d. } \mathrm{FeCO}_{3} $$

Short answer

(a) Organic, (b) Organic, (c) Inorganic, (d) Inorganic.

Step-by-step solution

- Definition of Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are mostly composed of carbon and hydrogen atoms, and they may also contain oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and other elements. In an organic compound, carbon atoms are typically linked to other carbons or to hydrogen atoms.

- Identify Organic Compounds

Analyze each compound to determine if it fits the criteria for an organic compound:(a) \(C_8H_{18}\) - Composed of carbon and hydrogen, fits the criteria.(b) \(CH_3NH_2\) - Contains carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen, also fits the criteria.

- Definition of Inorganic Compounds

Inorganic compounds are typically composed of elements other than carbon and can include salts, metals, and minerals. They tend not to contain carbon-hydrogen bonds.

- Identify Inorganic Compounds

Analyze the remaining compounds to determine if they are inorganic:(c) \(CaO\) - No carbon-hydrogen bonds, primarily composed of calcium and oxygen.(d) \(FeCO_3\) - Contains carbon, but as part of the inorganic carbonate group, not in the context of organic chemistry.

Key concepts

Chemical Compound Classification

Chemical compound classification is crucial in the study of chemistry as it helps students organize compounds into groups with similar properties. This organization allows for a systematic study and understanding of the various substances we encounter in chemistry.
Compounds are broadly classified as either organic or inorganic. Organic compounds are primarily based on carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen atoms and often include other elements like oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur. These compounds form the foundation of living organisms and are central to organic chemistry. Examples include carbohydrates, proteins, and hydrocarbons.
Inorganic compounds, on the other hand, do not typically rely on carbon-hydrogen bonds. They include a vast range of substances, such as metals, salts, and minerals, with applications in industries from construction to electronics.
In the context of a classroom setting, exercises involving classification like the one provided can serve as valuable practice for students, reinforcing the criteria that distinguish organic from inorganic compounds.

Carbon-Hydrogen Bonds

The carbon-hydrogen bond, often denoted as C-H, is a significant indicator in the classification of organic compounds. It is this bond that essentially defines a widespread class of organic compounds known as hydrocarbons - compounds composed entirely of carbon and hydrogen, such as octane \(C_8H_{18}\).
Understanding C-H bonds aids in recognizing organic molecules since life on Earth revolves around these carbon-based structures. The simplicity and strength of carbon-hydrogen bonds allow for a diverse array of molecular architectures.

Functional Groups and Complexity

Organic molecules often contain functional groups - specific groups of atoms within molecules that have certain predictable chemical behaviors. For example, the amino group in methylamine \(CH_3NH_2\) is a functional group that contributes both to the molecule's reactivity and its classification as organic.
Through classroom discussion and exercises, students learn to detect organic compounds by identifying these essential C-H bonds and understanding the characteristics they impart to molecules.

Organic Chemistry Education

Organic chemistry education is a substantial part of chemical curricula. It involves understanding not only the carbon-hydrogen bonds but also the myriad reactions, mechanisms, and syntheses that are fundamental to creating the vast array of organic compounds known to science.
The role of education in this discipline is to simplify complex concepts, like the varied structures and reactions of organic molecules, making them accessible and comprehensible to students.

Hands-on Learning and Critical Thinking

Effective learning strategies include hands-on laboratory work, where students observe the behavior of organic compounds, and the use of exercises such as the one provided to reinforce theoretical knowledge.
Developing a strong foundation in organic chemistry is not only about memorizing structures or reactions; it's about fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills that enable students to classify, predict and synthesize organic molecules in a systematic way. Engaging educational materials and practices empower students to demystify the complexities of organic chemistry.