Organic and Inorganic Compounds

Organic and Inorganic Compounds A compound is a pure substance formed when two or more elements chemically bond in a fixed ratio. Compounds can be broadly classified into organic and inorganic compounds. • • Organic compounds: Primarily carbon-based molecules that often contain hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. They are commonly associated with living organisms and biochemical reactions. Inorganic compounds: Do not necessarily contain carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds and are found in minerals, gases, and non-living environments. Organic Compounds Why is Carbon Special? Carbon is unique because: 1. It has four valence electrons, allowing it to form strong covalent bonds with many elements. 2. It forms long chains and rings through single, double, and triple bonds, creating a vast array of molecular structures. 3. It can bond with functional groups, which modify its chemical properties and behavior. Classification of Organic Compounds Organic compounds can be grouped into biomolecules, each playing a distinct role in life processes: 1. Carbohydrates (Sugars & Polysaccharides) • • • Composition: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), and Oxygen (O) in a 1:2:1 ratio. Functions: Provide quick energy, store energy, and support cell structures. Examples: ü Monosaccharides: Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) – primary energy source. ü Disaccharides: Sucrose (table sugar) – used for energy. ü Polysaccharides: Cellulose (fiber), Glycogen (stored in muscles and liver). 2. Proteins (Polypeptides & Enzymes) • • • Composition: Chains of amino acids, which contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur. Functions: o Enzymes (biological catalysts) – speed up chemical reactions. o Structural proteins (collagen, keratin) – support muscles, skin, and nails. o Transport proteins (hemoglobin) – carry oxygen in blood. Example: Hemoglobin 3. Lipids (Fats, Oils, and Steroids) • • • Composition: Mainly carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but with fewer oxygen atoms than carbohydrates. Functions: o Long-term energy storage. o Cell membrane structure (phospholipids). o Hormone production (steroids like testosterone and estrogen). Examples: o Triglycerides – found in fats and oils. o Phospholipids – make up cell membranes. o Cholesterol – precursor for hormones. 4. Nucleic Acids (DNA & RNA) • • • Composition: Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Functions: o Store and transmit genetic information. o Control protein synthesis. Examples: ü DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) – genetic blueprint. ü RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) – helps in protein synthesis. 5. Vitamins • • Organic molecules required in small amounts for metabolism. Example: o Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid, C₆H₈O₆) – essential for immune function. Organic Reactions Organic molecules undergo chemical transformations such as: 1. Hydrolysis – breaking molecules by adding water. o Example: Breaking down starch into glucose. 2. Condensation (Dehydration Synthesis) – forming bonds by removing water. o Example: Forming proteins from amino acids. 3. Combustion – burning hydrocarbons to release energy. o Example: Cellular respiration of glucose to produce ATP. Inorganic Compounds Characteristics of Inorganic Compounds • • • Do not contain C-H bonds. Have ionic or covalent bonds. Found in minerals, salts, and gases. Important Inorganic Compounds in Life 1. Water (H₂O) • • Properties: o Universal solvent. o High specific heat (regulates body temperature). Role in the body: o Transports nutrients. o Helps in chemical reactions (hydrolysis). 2. Acids & Bases • • Acids donate H⁺ ions, and bases accept H⁺ ions. Example: HCl (stomach acid) – helps digest food. 3. Minerals (Essential Elements) • • • • Iron (Fe) – component of hemoglobin (oxygen transport). Calcium (Ca²⁺) – strengthens bones and teeth. Potassium (K⁺) – regulates nerve function. Magnesium (Mg²⁺) – helps enzyme activity. 4. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) • Produced in respiration and used by plants in photosynthesis. Role of Inorganic Compounds in Human Health • • Electrolytes (Na⁺, K⁺, Cl⁻) regulate heart and nerve function. Oxygen (O₂) is essential for ATP production in cells. In your notebook, answer the following quesdons: 1. What makes carbon capable of forming so many different compounds? 2. Explain how lipids are essential for both energy storage and cell function. 3. How do enzymes function, and why are they important? 4. Why do humans need carbohydrates if they can obtain energy from fats? 5. How does hemoglobin use an inorganic element to function? 6. What inorganic compound is crucial for nerve impulses and muscle contractions? 7. What role does magnesium play in enzyme activity? 8. How does the body maintain pH balance using acids and bases? 9. Why is water considered a universal solvent? 10. How does CO₂ affect the pH of the blood?