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Definition

noun

1. A molecule that is normally found in or produced by living systems.

2. A molecule that typically consists of carbon atoms in rings or long chains, where other atoms (e.g. hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen) are attached.

Supplement

These molecules share common characteristics. In general, they are capable of forming stable covalent bonds with one another making them excellent at forming unique structures, and the reason why there are so many carbon compounds. The neutral organic compounds also tend to be less soluble in water compared with some inorganic salts. Organic compounds tend to dissolve in solvents that are also organic, such as ethyl alcohol.

Examples of organic molecules are hydrocarbons, aliphatic compounds, aromatic and alicyclic compounds, polymers, biomolecules, and buckyballs.

Compare: inorganic molecule.