Organic chemistry

Organic chemistry is the scientific study of the structure, properties, composition, reactions, and synthesis of organic compounds that by definition contain carbon. It is a specific discipline within the subject of chemistry. Organic compounds are molecules composed of carbon and hydrogen, and may contain any number of other elements. Many organic compounds contain nitrogen, oxygen, halogens, and more rarely phosphorus or sulphur.

Organic reactions

The reactions which organic compounds undergo is largely determined by functional groups. The general theory of these reactions involves careful analysis of the electron affinity of key atoms, and bond strengths. These issues can determine the relative stability of short-lived intermediate organic ions, which usually directly determine the path of the reaction. Most of the time spent in an introductory organic chemistry class involves learning the processes used to manufacture organic molecules. For an elaborate exposition on organic reactions, see Organic reaction

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