Back to: Organic Chemistry 200 Level
Welcome to class!
Hello brilliant one! It’s such a delight to have you here today. I hope you’re feeling energised and ready to learn something fascinating. You know, learning Chemistry isn’t just about passing exams — it’s about understanding the beautiful science that surrounds us daily in our food, soaps, clothes, fuels and even the air we breathe. So grab your notebook, settle in, and let’s have a wonderful time learning together.
Review Of General Principles
What is Organic Chemistry?
Let’s start with something familiar. Have you ever thought about what makes up the jollof rice you love? Or how your perfume smells so sweet? What about the petrol that powers your family’s car? All these things are made of compounds that contain carbon — and that’s what Organic Chemistry is all about. It’s the study of carbon compounds, especially those found in living things.
Organic Chemistry is not just about test tubes and lab coats — it’s about the everyday life of every Nigerian child. From the plantain you eat to the soaps in your bathroom, there’s Chemistry in action.
Understanding Carbon: The Heart of Organic Chemistry
Carbon is very special — and here’s why. It can form four strong bonds with other atoms. That means it can link up with other carbon atoms or different elements to make chains, rings, and even complex structures like the ones in your DNA. Think of carbon as a very friendly person who loves making friends and forming groups.
This special ability is called catenation — the power of carbon to form long chains. It’s like when children in a school hold hands to form a circle or a line during assembly. That’s how carbon atoms hold on to each other, forming the backbone of most organic molecules.
Carbon can also form single, double, or triple bonds, depending on how strong the connection needs to be — kind of like how you may shake someone’s hand, hug them, or even hold on tight when you really trust them.
General Characteristics of Organic Compounds
Here are some things you should know about organic compounds:
They mostly contain carbon and hydrogen, sometimes with oxygen, nitrogen, sulphur, or halogens.
They usually burn easily, which is why petrol and kerosene are used as fuels.
Many of them have low melting and boiling points compared to inorganic compounds.
They are mostly insoluble in water but dissolve well in organic solvents like kerosene or ethanol.
They often react slowly and need special conditions or catalysts.
Sources of Organic Compounds
You’ll find organic compounds in both natural and synthetic sources. For example:
Natural sources: Plants, animals, coal, petroleum and natural gas.
Synthetic sources: Man-made chemicals like plastics, nylon and medicines.
Classification of Organic Compounds
To stay organised, organic compounds are grouped into two main types:
Acyclic (open chain) compounds – Like alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes. These are like straight roads or streets in your neighbourhood.
Cyclic (closed ring) compounds – Like benzene. Imagine a roundabout on the road; that’s how carbon atoms form rings in some organic compounds.
Each compound also belongs to a homologous series, meaning they share similar structures and chemical properties, but differ by a simple group like –CH₂.
Summary
- Organic Chemistry is the study of carbon compounds, especially those in living things.
- Carbon forms stable chains and rings, giving it unique bonding power.
- Organic compounds can be natural or synthetic and usually contain carbon and hydrogen.
- They are classified into acyclic and cyclic compounds and belong to different homologous series.
Evaluation
- What makes carbon so unique in Organic Chemistry?
- Name two differences between organic and inorganic compounds.
- What are the two main classifications of organic compounds?
- Mention three natural sources of organic compounds.
Well done, champ! You’ve taken a big step in understanding the world of Organic Chemistry, and I’m proud of your effort. Remember, learning with Afrilearn means you’re never alone — we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Keep believing in yourself, and I look forward to seeing you in the next lesson where we’ll continue this exciting journey. Keep shining.