Most organic compounds contain which atoms as their primary components?

• A. $\mathrm{Mg}$ and $S$
• B. $\mathrm{Na}$ and $\mathrm{Cl}$
• C. $C$ and $H$
• D. $O$ and $N$

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that organic compounds are primarily defined by the presence of carbon atoms in their structure.
2. Recognize that hydrogen atoms are almost always bonded to carbon in organic molecules, forming hydrocarbons and their derivatives.
3. Note that while oxygen and nitrogen are common in many organic compounds, they are considered heteroatoms and not the primary components.
4. Identify that magnesium (Mg), sulfur (S), sodium (Na), and chlorine (Cl) are not the main atoms in most organic compounds; they are more common in inorganic or specialized compounds.
5. Conclude that the primary atoms in most organic compounds are carbon (C) and hydrogen (H), which form the backbone of organic chemistry.