Which of the following best describes the primary focus of an introductory organic chemistry course?

• A. The study of the structure, properties, and reactions of carbon-containing compounds
• B. The analysis of inorganic salts and metals
• C. The exploration of nuclear reactions and radioactive decay
• D. The study of atmospheric gases and their interactions

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the main subject of organic chemistry, which is the study of carbon-containing compounds and their behavior.
2. Understand that organic chemistry focuses on the structure (how atoms are arranged), properties (physical and chemical characteristics), and reactions (how compounds transform) of these carbon-based molecules.
3. Recognize that inorganic salts, metals, nuclear reactions, and atmospheric gases fall outside the primary scope of organic chemistry and are studied in other branches of chemistry.
4. Recall that introductory organic chemistry courses emphasize fundamental concepts such as bonding in carbon compounds, functional groups, reaction mechanisms, and stereochemistry.
5. Conclude that the best description of the primary focus of an introductory organic chemistry course is the study of the structure, properties, and reactions of carbon-containing compounds.