Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Carbon

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Carbon

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Problem 1

Textbook Question

Organic chemistry is currently defined asa. the study of compounds made only by living cells.b. the study of carbon compounds.c. the study of natural (as opposed to synthetic) compounds.d. the study of hydrocarbons.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the key element that is central to organic chemistry, which is carbon.

Consider the broadest definition that encompasses all compounds studied in organic chemistry.

Evaluate each option: (a) focuses on compounds made by living cells, which is not entirely accurate as organic chemistry includes synthetic compounds as well; (b) involves carbon compounds, which is a fundamental aspect of organic chemistry; (c) distinguishes between natural and synthetic, which is not a defining feature of organic chemistry; (d) focuses on hydrocarbons, which are a subset of organic compounds.

Determine which option best describes the field of organic chemistry as a whole.

Conclude that the study of carbon compounds is the most comprehensive definition of organic chemistry.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Definition of Organic Chemistry

Organic chemistry is primarily defined as the study of carbon-containing compounds. This includes a vast array of substances, from simple molecules like methane to complex macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. Understanding this definition is crucial as it distinguishes organic chemistry from other branches of chemistry that focus on inorganic compounds.

Carbon Compounds

Carbon is unique in its ability to form stable bonds with many elements, including itself, leading to a diverse range of compounds. This versatility allows for the formation of various structures, such as chains, rings, and complex three-dimensional shapes. The study of these carbon compounds is central to organic chemistry, as they are the foundation of biological molecules and synthetic materials.

Synthetic vs. Natural Compounds

In organic chemistry, compounds can be classified as natural or synthetic. Natural compounds are those produced by living organisms, while synthetic compounds are artificially created in laboratories. This distinction is important for understanding the applications of organic chemistry in fields such as pharmaceuticals, where both types of compounds play significant roles in drug development and research.