What is a characteristic feature of organic compounds?

• A. They consist only of nitrogen and sulfur
• B. They do not contain carbon atoms
• C. They typically contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
• D. They are all synthetic in nature

Answer: (C)

A characteristic feature of organic compounds is that they typically contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. This fundamental structure is the basis of organic chemistry, where carbon forms the backbone of molecules, allowing for a vast diversity of compounds. Carbon's ability to form stable covalent bonds with other elements, including itself, leads to the creation of complex structures that are essential to life, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

The presence of hydrogen and oxygen is common in many organic compounds, particularly those that are biologically significant, such as sugars and fats. These elements play vital roles in the molecular functions and energy dynamics within living organisms.

In contrast, the other choices present characteristics that are not representative of organic compounds and do not encompass the essential traits of organic chemistry. For example, organic compounds are not solely made of nitrogen and sulfur, nor do they exclude carbon as a fundamental component. Additionally, they include both natural and synthetic substances, disputing the notion that they are entirely synthetic.