chemistryorganic

Organic chemistry is the branch of chemistry that studies the structure, properties, synthesis, and reactions of organic compounds, which are primarily carbon-containing compounds, including hydrocarbons and their derivatives. It explores how molecular structure governs reactivity, physical properties, and stability. It overlaps with biochemistry, medicine, materials science, and environmental science.

The field originated in the early 19th century with discoveries that carbon compounds could form a vast array of structures, leading to the development of structural theory and synthetic methods. Notable milestones include the synthesis of urea by Friedrich Wöhler in 1828, which helped establish that organic compounds can be prepared from inorganic precursors, and the elucidation of the structure of benzene by Kekulé and Couper. Over time, the field expanded to include complex natural products, polymers, and organometallic chemistry.

Core concepts include functional groups, bonding, stereochemistry, and reaction mechanisms. Reaction types such as addition, substitution, elimination, and rearrangement form the basis of synthetic planning. Analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography are essential for characterization. Retrosynthesis, catalysis, and green chemistry principles guide modern synthesis and industrial production.

Organic chemistry comprises several subfields, including medicinal chemistry, polymer chemistry, organometallic chemistry, physical organic chemistry, and computational chemistry. Applications span pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, plastics, dyes, energy storage, and materials with novel properties. Education in organic chemistry emphasizes problem solving, safety, and an understanding of how molecular structure affects reactivity.