Understanding Organic Chemistry Concepts

What is the primary characteristic that defines organic chemistry?

• The study of all chemical elements.

• The study of molecules that contain carbon atoms.

• The study of compounds found only in living organisms.

• The study of minerals and rocks.

What special ability of carbon allows it to form a vast number of diverse compounds, such as long chains and rings?

• It can conduct electricity.

• It can bond with itself.

• It is highly reactive with oxygen.

• It is a very heavy element.

In ancient times, which substance was used as a mordant to help fabric dyes last longer and appear more vibrant?

• Salicylic acid

• Morphine

• Urea

• Ephedrine

Which chemist is recognized for synthesizing urea from an inorganic salt, a discovery that revolutionized the understanding of organic compounds and started the modern organic chemical industry?

• Jöns Jacob Berzelius

• Alexander Fleming

• Friedrich Wöhler

• John C. Sheehan

What information does a molecular formula provide about a molecule?

• The types of atoms and how many of each are present.

• The way atoms are connected to each other.

• The three-dimensional shape of the molecule.

• The total number of electrons in the molecule.

How many bonds do carbon atoms typically prefer to form in organic molecules?

• Two bonds

• Three bonds

• Four bonds

• Eight bonds

In a skeletal formula, what do the bends and ends of the lines usually represent?

• Hydrogen atoms

• Carbon atoms

• Oxygen atoms

• Nitrogen atoms

What term is used for atoms in organic molecules that are not carbon or hydrogen?

• Isotopes

• Functional groups

• Heteroatoms

• Polymers