What distinguishes organic chemistry from inorganic chemistry?

Organic chemistry is primarily defined by its focus on carbon-containing compounds. This branch of chemistry examines the structure, properties, reactions, and synthesis of organic compounds, which typically include carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other elements. The versatility of carbon allows it to form a vast array of structures, including simple molecules like methane and complex macromolecules like proteins and nucleic acids, making organic chemistry a cornerstone of various scientific disciplines including biochemistry and materials science.

In contrast, inorganic chemistry encompasses a broader range of substances that do not primarily involve carbon-hydrogen bonds. While some carbon-containing compounds are studied in inorganic chemistry, the focus is on minerals, metals, and non-metallic elements, as well as their interactions and compounds.

The other choices pertain to misconceptions: suggesting that inorganic chemistry primarily deals with organic compounds undermines the key distinction between the two fields. Similarly, asserting that organic chemistry studies only gases or that inorganic chemistry is focused on biological compounds does not accurately reflect the scope and nature of those disciplines. Hence, the definition that organic chemistry deals specifically with carbon-containing compounds is the accurate distinguishing factor.