Organic chemistry is a branch of chemistry that explores the structure, properties, and reactions of molecules that contain carbon atoms. Carbon is capable of forming strong covalent bonds with itself and other elements, which leads to the creation of a vast array of complex and diverse compounds.

Organic compounds are a critical component of life itself, comprising proteins, DNA, and other biological molecules. Organic chemistry research also underpins many industrial processes, from the creation of plastics and drugs to the production of fuels and agricultural chemicals. Organic chemists use a variety of tools, including spectroscopy and synthesis techniques, to study the behavior of carbon compounds and develop new materials and compounds with useful properties.