CHAPTER 4

CARBON AND THE MOLECULAR DIVERSITY OF LIFE

OBJECTIVES

1. Distinguish between organic and inorganic molecules. *
2. Give examples of where organic/inorganic molecules can be found in biological/non biological systems.*
3. Explain how carbon's electron configuration determines the kinds and number of bonds carbon will form.*
4. Describe how carbon skeletons may vary, and explain how this variation contributes to the diversity and complexity of organic molecules.*
5. Be able to recognize a hydrocarbon and discuss its unique chemical properties. *
6. Recognize the major functional groups and common names. Describe the chemical properties and organic molecules in which they occur.*
7. Be able to draw a line drawing of an organic molecule (see examples in class notes).*
8. Be able to draw and interpret a chemical structure using a line drawing.*

KEY TERMS: tetravalence, organic chemistry, organic molecules, hydrocarbons, functional group, hydroxyl, alcohol, carbonyl, aldehyde, ketone, carboxyl, carboxylic acid, amino group, amine, sulfhydryl, thiol, phosphate.