Organic compounds

Definition

Organic compounds are molecules that contain carbon and are found in all known forms of life. They play a crucial role in the chemistry of life and include substances like proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Organic compounds are essential for the formation of life on Earth and potentially other planets.
2. Carbon's ability to form four covalent bonds makes it uniquely suited to form complex molecules necessary for life.
3. Detection of organic compounds on other celestial bodies is a key indicator in the search for extraterrestrial life.
4. Meteorites have been found to contain organic compounds, suggesting that these molecules can form in space.
5. The study of organic compounds falls under astrobiology when considering their role in the origin and distribution of life in the universe.

Review Questions

• What element is central to all organic compounds?
• Why are organic compounds significant in the search for extraterrestrial life?
• How do meteorites contribute to our understanding of organic compounds in space?

Related terms

Astrobiology: The study of the origin, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe.

Amino Acids: Organic compounds that combine to form proteins and are essential for life's biochemical processes.

Exoplanet: A planet located outside our solar system that orbits a star.