The distinction between organic and inorganic matter depends on their chemical composition, properties, and. Here are some basic ways to tell the difference:
1.*Presence of carbon**:
Generally, organic matter contains the element carbon and exists in the form of carbon chains or carbon rings.
Most inorganics contain no carbon or only a very small amount of carbon (e.g. carbonates, etc.).
2.*Intermolecular bonding**:
Organic matter is usually bonded by covalent bonds to form molecular crystals.
Inorganics are usually bonded by ionic bonds to form ionic crystals.
3.*Solubility**:
Organic matter is usually poorly soluble in water, but soluble in organic solvents (such as alcohols, ethers, etc.).
Inorganics are usually soluble in water, but poorly soluble in organic solvents.
4.*and biological activity**:
Organic matter is mainly synthesized by living organisms in nature and is the basis of life, such as proteins, sugars, lipids and nucleic acids.
Inorganic substances are ubiquitous in nature, including minerals, water, gases in the air, etc., which are not necessarily directly related to biological activities.
5.*Exceptions for Specific Compounds**:
Although the general rule is that organic matter contains carbon and inorganic matter does not, there are some exceptions. For example, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), carbonates (such as CaCO3), etc., although they contain carbon, are classified as inorganic because their properties are closer to inorganic substances.
6.*Structure & Properties**:
Organic matter has a variety of complex structures, and since carbon atoms can form four covalent bonds, organic matter can form a variety of different configurations and stereoisomers.
In contrast, inorganic matter is usually simpler in structure and less abundant in stereochemistry.
Through these characteristics, we can roughly judge whether a substance belongs to organic or inorganic matter. However, in some cases, especially for some special compounds, further chemical analysis may be required to determine their classification.