Textbook Question
Identify each of the following properties as more typical of an organic or inorganic compound:
c. contains carbon and hydrogen
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12. Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Problem 2b
Textbook Question
Identify each of the following as a formula of an organic or inorganic compound. For an organic compound, indicate if represented as molecular formula, expanded, or condensed structural formula:
b. K3PO4
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the distinction between organic and inorganic compounds. Organic compounds primarily contain carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, or other elements, while inorganic compounds typically do not have carbon-hydrogen bonds.
Step 2: Analyze the given formula, K₃PO₄. This formula represents a compound composed of potassium (K), phosphorus (P), and oxygen (O). Notice that it does not contain carbon (C) or hydrogen (H), which are key indicators of organic compounds.
Step 3: Conclude that K₃PO₄ is an inorganic compound because it lacks carbon-hydrogen bonds and is composed of metal and nonmetal elements.
Step 4: Recognize that K₃PO₄ is written as a molecular formula, which provides the exact number of each type of atom in the compound but does not show the arrangement of atoms.
Step 5: Summarize the classification: K₃PO₄ is an inorganic compound represented as a molecular formula.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Organic vs. Inorganic Compounds
Organic compounds primarily contain carbon and are often associated with living organisms, while inorganic compounds typically do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds. Examples of organic compounds include hydrocarbons and alcohols, whereas inorganic compounds include salts and minerals. Understanding this distinction is crucial for classifying chemical formulas correctly.
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Chemical Formulas
Chemical formulas represent the composition of a compound. A molecular formula shows the number and type of atoms in a molecule, while expanded structural formulas depict the arrangement of atoms and bonds. Condensed structural formulas provide a simplified representation, often omitting some bonds. Recognizing these formats helps in identifying the nature of the compound.
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Phosphate Compounds
Phosphate compounds, such as K₃PO₄ (potassium phosphate), are inorganic salts containing the phosphate ion (PO₄³⁻). They are commonly used in fertilizers and have various applications in biochemistry. Identifying K₃PO₄ as an inorganic compound is essential for understanding its properties and uses in different contexts.
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