crossword clue organic compound – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "organic compound" in your latest puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your crossword with ease and learn a bit more about these fascinating chemical substances.
Solutions for "crossword clue organic compound" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ACID: A compound with a sour taste, often containing a carboxyl group (COOH) like acetic acid, which is an organic compound.
5 Letters
ESTER: A type of organic compound derived from a carboxylic acid and an alcohol, known for their distinctive sweet smells.
7 Letters
METHANE: The simplest hydrocarbon, a primary component of natural gas, and a well-known organic compound.
11 Letters
HYDROCARBON: An organic chemical compound composed exclusively of hydrogen and carbon atoms, such as methane or benzene.
More About "organic compound"
Organic compounds are the foundation of organic chemistry, a vast and complex field dedicated to their study. Defined primarily by the presence of carbon-hydrogen bonds, these compounds are incredibly diverse, ranging from simple molecules like methane (CH4) to highly complex structures like proteins and DNA, which are essential for life. The unique ability of carbon atoms to form stable bonds with themselves and with a wide variety of other elements, particularly hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur, gives rise to this immense diversity.
They are ubiquitous in nature, forming the building blocks of living organisms, and are also crucial in human-made products. From the fuels that power our vehicles (petroleum is largely composed of hydrocarbons) and the plastics that make up countless everyday items, to pharmaceuticals that save lives, and the dyes that color our world, organic compounds play an indispensable role in modern society. Understanding them is key not just for chemists but also for solving many crossword puzzles!
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Field: When you see a scientific clue like "organic compound," think about what specific areas of science it might touch upon. Is it chemistry, biology, physics? This can narrow down the potential vocabulary.
- Look for Common Short Forms: Many scientific terms have shorter, more common names or abbreviations that fit crossword grids better (e.g., "DNA" for deoxyribonucleic acid, or "ACID" for a carboxylic acid type).
- Check for Related Concepts: Even if the direct answer isn't immediately apparent, think about concepts closely related to the clue. For "organic compound," consider types of organic compounds (hydrocarbons, alcohols), their properties, or common reactions.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines an organic compound in chemistry?
An organic compound is generally any chemical compound that contains carbon-hydrogen bonds. While there are some exceptions (like carbonates and cyanides), the presence of carbon linked to hydrogen is the key characteristic. They are the basis of all known life on Earth.
Are all organic compounds safe?
No, absolutely not. While many organic compounds are essential for life (like proteins, carbohydrates, and DNA), many others can be highly toxic, flammable, or harmful. Examples include poisons like cyanide, explosives like TNT, and various industrial solvents.
How can I improve my knowledge of scientific terms for crosswords?
Familiarize yourself with common prefixes, suffixes, and root words used in scientific terminology (e.g., 'hydro-', 'oxy-', '-ase'). Reading science popularizations, encyclopedias, or even specialized dictionaries for a few minutes each day can also significantly expand your vocabulary. Practice with science-themed crossword puzzles to get accustomed to the typical clues.