What defines an organic molecule?

An organic molecule is primarily defined by the presence of carbon atoms that are covalently bonded to hydrogen atoms. This characteristic is fundamental because carbon can form stable chains and rings with other carbon atoms, allowing for a diverse range of structures. The bonding of carbon to hydrogen is particularly significant because it leads to the formation of hydrocarbons, which serve as the backbone for many organic compounds.

While it's true that many organic molecules can be derived from living organisms, this is not strictly the definition of organic molecules. The key defining feature is the carbon-hydrogen bonding. Thus, hydrocarbons and other organic compounds can be synthesized in laboratories, independent of biological processes. Other choices concerning only oxygen or carbon atoms do not encompass the broader definition of organic molecules, which fundamentally relies on the carbon-hydrogen bonds that allow for the diversity and complexity seen in organic chemistry.