Unit 1

• What is the main difference between organic and inorganic compounds?

  Organic compounds mainly contain carbon and hydrogen, while inorganic compounds do not.
• What are the main elements found in organic compounds?

  • Carbon (C)
  • Hydrogen (H)
  • Often contain Oxygen (O)
  • May also contain Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P)
• What percentage of all known compounds are organic?

  Over 90%
• What are the types of organic compounds mentioned in the study material?

  • Carbohydrates
  • Proteins
  • Lipids (fats)
  • Nucleic acids
  • Enzymes
• How are inorganic compounds defined in relation to carbon and hydrogen?


  Inorganic compounds are not mainly composed of carbon and hydrogen.
• Can inorganic compounds contain carbon? Give an example.

  Yes, inorganic compounds can contain carbon; for example, carbon dioxide.
• What is a characteristic of carbonates in relation to inorganic compounds?

  Carbonates are a group of inorganic compounds that contain hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen.
• What is an example of a carbonate mentioned in the study material?

  Sodium bicarbonate
• Why is water considered an important inorganic compound in living organisms?

  Water is essential for various biological processes in living organisms.