top of page
Stationary photo

Chapter 2: Carbon Compound

Introduction to Carbon Compound.

What are carbon compound?

Carbon compound are compounds that contains carbon as their constituent element. There are two types of carbon:

  • Organic compound

  • Inorganic compound

Organic Compounds

Organic compounds were once defined as any carbon compound formed exclusively by a living organism. Now many of these compounds can be synthesized in a lab or have been found distinct from organisms, so the definition has been revised (although not agreed upon). An organic compound must contain at least carbon. Most chemists agree hydrogen must also be present.


Inorganic Compounds

Inorganic compounds may be found in minerals and other natural sources or may be made in the lab. Examples include carbon oxides (CO and CO2), carbonates (e.g., CaCO3), oxalates (e.g., BaC2O4), carbon sulfides (e.g., carbon disulfide).


Uses of Carbon Compounds

The uses of carbon compounds are limitless. Life as we know it relies on carbon. Most products contain carbon, including plastics, alloys, and pigments. Fuels and foods are based on carbon.






Comments


bottom of page