An organic compound is a type of chemical compound that primarily contains carbon atoms, often bonded with hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other elements. These compounds are the building blocks of life and are found in all living organisms. Examples include carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which play essential roles in biological processes. Organic compounds can be classified into various categories based on their structure and function. For instance, alkanes are simple hydrocarbons, while amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. Understanding organic compounds is crucial in fields like biochemistry and pharmacology.