Question

What is the definition for an inorganic molecule?

Answer 1

A molecule which does not contain carbon.

Explanation:

"Inorganic" is defined as not containing any carbon molecules. I t was originally defined as coming from a living organism, but some substances that are produced biotically can also be produced abiotically, so the definition changed to anything containing carbon molecules.

Answer 2

This can be tricky, because the quick answer is any molecule which does not contain carbon. There are some exceptions to this though...

Explanation:

Pure forms of carbon (like diamond) are considered to be inorganic because of its status as a mineral.

Carbon oxide compounds (carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide) are also considered to be inorganic.

Carbonate compounds (`CaCO_3`) are also considered to be inorganic even though they have carbon atoms.

Hint: Look for molecules which will have C-H bonds, if those are present the compound is organic.

Here is a video which summarizes some key points about organic molecules.

Video from: Noel Pauller

Hope this helps!