Organic compounds are produced through various methods, primarily from the degradation of organic matter and through synthetic processes using petrochemicals.
Natural Production: Breakdown of Organic Matter
Over geological timescales, organic matter (such as dead plants and animals) buried underground experiences high pressure and temperature. This leads to the breakdown of complex organic molecules into simpler hydrocarbons, which are the main components of petrochemicals like oil and natural gas. This natural process is the source of many of the raw materials used in the synthetic production of organic compounds.
Synthetic Production: Using Petrochemicals
Most synthetically-produced organic compounds originate from petrochemicals. These petrochemicals, mainly consisting of hydrocarbons, serve as the building blocks for a vast array of organic molecules. Through various chemical reactions, these hydrocarbons are transformed into more complex and specialized organic compounds used in pharmaceuticals, plastics, fuels, and many other products.
Summary
Organic compounds are generated naturally through the breakdown of organic matter over long periods, and synthetically through the manipulation of petrochemicals derived from these natural processes.
