Given the chemical formula of a compound, which element(s) MUST you find to be classified as an organic compound.
a
carbon and hydrogen
b
nitrogen and calcium
c
oxygen, nitrogen and helium
d
hydrogen
a
carbon and hydrogen
Organic compounds by definition must contain carbon, and they typically contain hydrogen as well. Therefore, to be classified as an organic compound, the chemical formula must at least include carbon (C) and generally hydrogen (H). Nitrogen, calcium, oxygen, and helium are not required for a compound to be organic, although nitrogen and oxygen are often found in many organic compounds.