Question

heather is testing a substance as to whether it is organic or inorganic. she works with the solid substance and discovers it can conduct electricity without burning. she also knows the carbon to oxygen ratio is 1 to 2.

what conclusion can she make from her experiment?

the substance is organic because it is solid at room temperature.
the substance is organic because it cannot burn readily.
the substance is inorganic because it has carbon.
the substance is inorganic because it conducts electricity.

Explanation:

Analyze the experimental observations

Using the Organic Compounds and Inorganic Compounds knowledge points

• Observation 1: The solid substance conducts electricity without burning.
• Observation 2: The carbon-to-oxygen ratio is \(1:2\).
• Key distinction: Organic compounds typically burn (combust) easily and are poor electrical conductors. Inorganic compounds often conduct electricity (especially in solution or molten states, or as certain solids) and do not burn readily.

Evaluate the given options

Using the Organic Compounds and Inorganic Compounds knowledge points

• Option 1: "The substance is organic because it is solid at room temperature." (Incorrect: Many inorganic substances are also solid at room temperature).
• Option 2: "The substance is organic because it cannot burn readily." (Incorrect: Organic compounds generally burn easily).
• Option 3: "The substance is inorganic because it has carbon." (Incorrect: Having carbon is a defining feature of organic compounds, though some simple carbon compounds like carbon dioxide are inorganic).
• Option 4: "The substance is inorganic because it conducts electricity." (Correct: Electrical conductivity is a characteristic property of many inorganic compounds, whereas most organic compounds are non-conductors).

Answer:

• The substance is organic because it is solid at room temperature.
• The substance is organic because it cannot burn readily.
• The substance is inorganic because it has carbon.
• The substance is inorganic because it conducts electricity. (Correct answer)