Organic compounds made up of the elements \( \mathrm{C}, \mathrm{H} \) and O , where the ratio of \( \mathrm{H}: \mathrm{O} \) is \( 2: 1 \). Organic compounds made up of elements \( \mathrm{C}, \mathrm{H} \) and O where the ratio of \( \mathrm{H}: \mathrm{O} \) is more than \( 2: 1 \)

Organic compounds composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) can be categorized based on the ratio of hydrogen to oxygen (H:O). Here's a breakdown of these classifications: --- ### 1. **Compounds with H:O Ratio of 2:1** **Example:** Carbohydrates **Characteristics:** - **General Formula:** Typically follow the empirical formula \( C_n(H_2O)_m \), which inherently gives an H:O ratio of 2:1. - **Structure:** Consist of carbon chains or rings with multiple hydroxyl (–OH) groups attached. - **Function:** Serve as primary energy sources and structural components in living organisms. **Common Types:** - **Monosaccharides:** Simple sugars like glucose and fructose. - **Disaccharides:** Formed by the linkage of two monosaccharides, such as sucrose and lactose. - **Polysaccharides:** Long-chain carbohydrates like starch, glycogen, and cellulose. **Example Molecules:** - **Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆):** A key energy source in cellular respiration. - **Fructose (C₆H₁₂O₆):** Found in fruits and honey. --- ### 2. **Compounds with H:O Ratio Greater Than 2:1** **Example:** Alcohols and Polyols **Characteristics:** - **Higher Hydrogen Content:** These compounds have more hydrogen atoms relative to oxygen compared to carbohydrates. - **Functional Groups:** Contain one or more hydroxyl (–OH) groups, but with additional hydrogen atoms bonded to carbon atoms. **Common Types:** - **Monohydric Alcohols:** Contain a single hydroxyl group (e.g., methanol, ethanol). - **Polyhydric Alcohols (Polyols):** Contain multiple hydroxyl groups (e.g., glycerol, sorbitol, xylitol). **Example Molecules:** - **Ethanol (C₂H₆O):** Commonly used as a solvent and in alcoholic beverages. - **Glycerol (C₃H₈O₃):** Utilized in the pharmaceutical and food industries as a humectant and sweetener. - **Sorbitol (C₆H₁₄O₆):** Used as a sugar substitute in various dietetic foods and beverages. --- ### **Key Differences:** - **Energy Storage vs. Solvents:** - **Carbohydrates (H:O = 2:1):** Primarily used for energy storage and structural functions in living organisms. - **Alcohols/Polyols (H:O > 2:1):** Often used as solvents, sweeteners, and in various industrial applications. - **Hydroxyl Group Presence:** - **Carbohydrates:** Multiple hydroxyl groups are typically involved in forming glycosidic bonds. - **Alcohols/Polyols:** The hydroxyl groups are free and can engage in hydrogen bonding, affecting solubility and boiling points. --- ### **Applications:** - **Carbohydrates:** - **Biological Energy:** Glucose is essential for cellular respiration. - **Structural Roles:** Cellulose provides rigidity to plant cell walls. - **Alcohols/Polyols:** - **Industrial Solvents:** Ethanol is widely used in laboratories and manufacturing. - **Food Industry:** Glycerol and sorbitol are used as sweeteners and humectants. - **Pharmaceuticals:** Serve as carriers for active ingredients in medications. --- Understanding the H:O ratio in organic compounds helps in predicting their chemical behavior, physical properties, and potential applications in various fields such as biology, chemistry, and industrial processes.