Epäorgaanisuus

Epäorgaanisuus refers to a state of being inorganic, which in chemistry and mineralogy describes substances that are not derived from living organisms. Unlike organic compounds, which are based on carbon and hydrogen, inorganic substances typically lack these elements as their primary structural components. This broad category encompasses a vast array of materials, including minerals, metals, salts, and water. The study of inorganic compounds forms a major branch of chemistry, known as inorganic chemistry, which explores their structure, properties, and reactions.

Inorganic compounds are essential to the natural world and human society. Minerals, such as quartz and feldspar, make up the Earth's crust. Metals, like iron and copper, are vital for construction and technology. Salts, such as sodium chloride, play crucial roles in biological processes and are used extensively in industry. Water, a simple inorganic molecule, is fundamental to all known life. The formation of inorganic substances often involves geological processes, precipitation, or synthesis through chemical reactions that do not rely on biological pathways. Understanding epäorgaanisuus is key to comprehending the composition and processes of the Earth and its resources.