The study of the structure, preparation, properties, and reactions of carbon compounds. The term organic was early applied to compounds derived from plant and animal sources. These substances from living systems were usually distillable liquids or low-melting solids and were flammable, in contrast to metals, salts, and oxides from mineral sources. Until about 1830 it was held by some that organic compounds contained some special quality, or vital force. This notion was dispelled, but the term organic remained and became broadened to include carbon compounds in general.