Which term describes natural matter or compounds with a carbon base?

Which term describes natural matter or compounds with a carbon base?

• A. Organic
• B. Inorganic
• C. Metal
• D. Mineral

Answer: (A)

Organic refers to substances that contain carbon as the backbone. Carbon’s ability to form four bonds lets organic molecules build long chains and rings, making up much of living matter and many natural compounds—from simple gases to sugars and proteins. Because of this carbon-based framework, natural matter or compounds with a carbon base are described as organic. Substances without that carbon-centered structure, such as minerals, metals, or many inorganic compounds, do not fit this description.

Organic refers to substances that contain carbon as the backbone. Carbon’s ability to form four bonds lets organic molecules build long chains and rings, making up much of living matter and many natural compounds—from simple gases to sugars and proteins. Because of this carbon-based framework, natural matter or compounds with a carbon base are described as organic. Substances without that carbon-centered structure, such as minerals, metals, or many inorganic compounds, do not fit this description.