Organic chemistry involves the chemistry of compounds containing carbon. Because of carbon¡¦s ability to bond to itself in a variety of ways, there are over 6 million different organic compounds.
The properties of organic compounds differ from those of inorganic compounds most notably in their relatively low melting point (usually under 300ºC), low boiling points, solubility in other organic solvents (not water), and poor electrical conductivity. Organic compounds often have slow reaction rates and provide low yields of product due to the tendency for many side reactions to occur. The length of the carbon chains or the size of the organic structure affect physical properties such as melting and boiling points.
References to organic formulas may be made either by name or by formula.
ƒo Molecular formula: indicates the type and number of each atom in the compound, yet give no information about the bonds or the structure of the compound.
ƒo Structural formula: indicates the complete two-dimensional structure of the compound, showing all of the bonds present.