Organic and inorganic are two broad categories that are used to classify substances in the field of biology. Organic substances are those that are derived from living things and are typically composed of carbon, hydrogen, and other elements such as oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur. Inorganic substances, on the other hand, are not derived from living things and do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds.
Organic substances are found in all living things and are essential for life. They include proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids, which are all important biomolecules that play crucial roles in the structure and function of cells. Proteins are responsible for carrying out a wide range of functions in the body, including catalyzing chemical reactions, providing structural support, and serving as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies. Carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches, provide energy for the body and are also involved in the synthesis and storage of energy. Lipids, which include fats, oils, and waxes, provide insulation, energy storage, and structural support. Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, contain the genetic information that controls the characteristics and functions of an organism.
Inorganic substances, on the other hand, do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds and are not essential for life. They include minerals, such as calcium and iron, and inorganic compounds, such as water and salt. Inorganic substances are important for maintaining the proper balance of ions and other substances in the body, and they play important roles in many physiological processes.
One important distinction between organic and inorganic substances is that organic substances are generally more complex and have more diverse properties than inorganic substances. This is due to the presence of carbon in organic substances, which allows them to form a wide range of chemical bonds and to participate in a variety of chemical reactions. Inorganic substances, on the other hand, tend to be simpler and have more limited chemical properties.
In conclusion, organic and inorganic substances are two broad categories that are used to classify substances in biology. Organic substances are those that are derived from living things and contain carbon, hydrogen, and other elements, while inorganic substances are not derived from living things and do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds. Both organic and inorganic substances play important roles in the body, but organic substances are generally more complex and have more diverse properties than inorganic substances.