Chemistry / Unit 12 Chem 2429 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Organic Compounds Defined by Carbon Catenation
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The idea
An organic compound is built around carbon's ability to form up to four strong bonds to other carbons, called catenation, producing chains, branches, and rings.
In practice
Carbon atoms link into an alkane's long chains, benzene's six-membered ring, and everything between.
Where people slip
Not every carbon-containing compound is organic — oxides like CO2 and ionic compounds like carbonates are conventionally excluded.
Your place on the trail
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