Question

What features distinguish between organic and inorganic molecules?

Short answer

Organic molecules have carbon-hydrogen bonds, often have a carbon backbone, are primarily synthesized by living organisms, and form key components like proteins and nucleic acids. Inorganic molecules do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds (with few exceptions), do not have a carbon backbone, are formed through geological or atmospheric processes, and take on diverse roles, from being part of key molecules to being used in construction materials.

Step-by-step solution

Definition

Define what organic and inorganic molecules are. Organic molecules are primarily made up of carbon atoms bonded with hydrogen atoms. They can also include elements like nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and more. Inorganic molecules, however, are composed of various elements and do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds, with a few exceptions such as carbonates and cyanides.

Structure

Explain how the structures of organic and inorganic molecules differ. Organic molecules have a carbon backbone, which means they typically have chains of carbon atoms or carbon atoms arranged in rings. Inorganic molecules often form ionic or covalent bonds and do not have a carbon backbone.

Formation Process

Details about their formation process should be provided. Organic molecules can be synthesized or broken down by living organisms, resulting in products like proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. While inorganic molecules are created through geological or atmospheric processes, or in a laboratory, and include salts, metals, substances made from single elements and any other compounds that don't contain carbon bonded to hydrogen.

Functions

Discuss how their functions differ. Organic molecules serve as the backbone of life, playing crucial roles in the biology of life forms. Inorganic molecules have diverse roles, from being part of biologically important molecules, like hemoglobin, to being materials used in construction, like concrete. Some inorganic molecules are also essential minerals required by living organisms.