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15 Differences between Organic and Inorganic Compounds(With Table)

Table of Contents

Chemistry is a branch of science that deals with the study of substances and their properties. It is further sub-divided into organic and inorganic chemistry. 

Organic chemistry deals with the study of organic compounds and inorganic chemistry the study of inorganic compounds. Many learners find it hard to differentiate these compounds.

So, what is the main difference between organic and inorganic compounds? The former has one or more carbon atoms in the structure while the latter may or may not have carbon atoms. 

This article provides a detailed explanation of the differences between organic and inorganic compounds in terms of solubility, density, formation, melting, and boiling points. 

Comparison Table (Organic vs Inorganic Compounds)

Basic Terms

Organic Compounds

Inorganic Compounds

Description

These are chemical compounds that have one or more carbon atoms.

These are chemical compounds that do not have carbon atoms.

Density

Low density

High density

Solubility in Water

Insoluble

Highly soluble

Formation

Occur as a result of living organisms.

Occur as a result of natural processes.

Conductivity

Poor conductor of electricity in an aqueous state.

Good conductor of electricity in an aqueous state.

Viscosity

Lower viscosity

Higher viscosity

Boiling Point

Higher boiling point

Lower boiling point

Melting Point

Higher melting point

Lower melting point

Nature Existence

Complex and biologically.

Simple and in mineral form.

Salt Formation

No salt formed

Result in salt formation

Type of Formation

Carbon atoms get bonded with hydrogen atoms.

No particular type of formation.

Components

No metals ions involved

Metal ions are involved.

Reactivity

Not reactive

Quite reactive

Physical State

Solid, Liquid, and Gas

Only solid-state

Examples

Nucleic acids, sucrose, enzymes, benzene, methane, fats, and ethanol.

Salt, metals, silver, sulfur, pure diamond, and silver

What Is Organic Compounds?

Organic compounds are chemical compounds of living things that contain carbon and atoms of carbons.

Organic compounds are made by human activities and they can also found in outer space where there are no living things.

The carbon bond present in the organic compounds also results in connection with other elements like oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen.

The common examples of organic compounds are urea, methane, ethane, sugars, and benzene. These chemical compounds occur in a liquid, solid, and gaseous state.

Besides that, it cannot be used to develop salt due to carbon covalent bonds. This is the feature that makes it stand out from other compounds.

What Is Inorganic Compounds?

Inorganic compounds are those chemical compounds that lack carbon and their atoms. They are normally produced by the geological system and mineral connections.

Inorganic compounds are produced by human beings through experiments or inventions in the laboratory.

Also, inorganic compounds are associated with non-living things like sodium chloride, diamond, and calcium chloride.

Most of these compounds are solid in nature and are non-volatile. Besides that, they are soluble in water and non-soluble in organic solutions.

Differences Between Organic and Inorganic Compounds

  • Organic compounds tend to contain a bond between carbon and hydrogen while inorganic compounds do not.
  • Organic compounds are chemical compounds found in living things while inorganic compounds occur in non-living things.
  • The existence nature of organic compounds is biological whereas those of inorganic compounds are mineral form.
  • Chemical compounds of organic compounds are quite complex while those of inorganic compounds are simple.
  • The bond between organic compounds is covalent while that of inorganic compounds is an ionic bond.
  • Inorganic compounds can be used to make salt while inorganic compounds cannot be used to make any salt.
  • Organic compounds are commonly insoluble in water while inorganic compounds are soluble in water.
  • All organic compounds are volatile and flammable while inorganic compounds are both non-volatile and non-flammable.
  • Inorganic compounds are chemicals that contain metal atoms while organic compounds do not contain metal atoms.
  • The melting and boiling points of organic compounds are too high due to the covalent bond which is strong while that of inorganic compounds is low due to weak intermolecular forces.
  • Inorganic compounds contain metal ions whereas organic compounds do not contain metal ions
  • The rate of reaction of organic compounds is slow while that of inorganic compounds is faster
  • Organic compounds are soluble in water while inorganic compounds are either soluble or insoluble in water
  • organic compounds are volatile and inflammable while inorganic compounds are non-volatile and non-inflammable. 

    • Similarities Between Organic and Inorganic Compounds

  • Both contain carbon atoms
  • Both are soluble in organic solvents
  • Both have intermolecular bonds 

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    • Are Proteins Organic or Inorganic?

    Proteins have carbon atoms in their structure. Therefore, any compound that contains a carbon atom is regarded to be an organic compound. Hence, proteins are organic compounds. 

    • Can the Human Body Absorb Inorganic Minerals?

    The human body has no power to extract inorganic minerals from the soil like plants. Therefore, they benefit the most from these inorganic compounds by consuming some plants. 

    • Is Human Body Organic or Inorganic?

    The human body structure composes of carbon atoms. Hence, the human body can be termed as organic in nature though it contains a few elements of inorganic compounds like iron, magnesium, and calcium. 

    • Are Inorganic Minerals Bad for You?

    Inorganic minerals have no nutritional benefit to the human body. Some minerals can cause injuries to the digestive system. Meanwhile, those minerals present in the body of animals and plants are organic. 

    • Is Water Organic or Inorganic?

    Water is an inorganic compound since it does not contain a carbon atom. Organic compounds tend to contain carbon atoms in their structure. 

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    Conclusion

    To sum up, organic compounds are chemical compounds that contain carbon atoms that bind together with hydrogen using a covalent bond.

    Inorganic compounds are chemical compounds that comprise metal atoms that bind together with ionic bonds.

    The two compounds study differently in organic chemistry and inorganic chemistry respectively. Good luck.

    More Sources and References

  • Organic Compound. Wikipedia

  • Inorganic Compound. Wikipedia

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