Difference between revisions of "Organic"
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==Chemistry== | ==Chemistry== | ||
:<small>''See also [[organic compound]].''</small><br /> | :<small>''See also [[organic compound]].''</small><br /> | ||
| − | In chemistry, the term organic is | + | In chemistry, the term organic is applied to any compound containing [[carbon]]. Chemistry is split into two general categories: [[organic chemistry]] and [[inorganic chemistry]]. |
==Environmentalism== | ==Environmentalism== | ||
Revision as of 18:38, January 14, 2008
Organic is a word that has many definitions, depending on the context. It is a term primarily used within biology, chemistry, and environmentalism. Its opposite is inorganic.
Biology
In biology, the term organic means anything made of or derived from living organisms.
Chemistry
- See also organic compound.
In chemistry, the term organic is applied to any compound containing carbon. Chemistry is split into two general categories: organic chemistry and inorganic chemistry.
Environmentalism
Within the environmentalist or healthy food movements, organic refers to any food grown without man-made chemicals or pesticides. The USDA certifies foods as organic, but some farmers also produce uncertified food.
References
- Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary. Organic.