* They contain carbon. This is the defining characteristic of organic compounds. Carbon's ability to form four bonds allows it to create long chains and complex structures.

* They often contain hydrogen. Hydrogen is frequently bonded to carbon in organic molecules.

* They are generally covalent. Organic compounds are held together by covalent bonds, where atoms share electrons.

* They are flammable. Many organic compounds readily burn in the presence of oxygen.

* They have low melting and boiling points. Compared to inorganic compounds, organic compounds often have lower melting and boiling points due to weaker intermolecular forces.

* They are often insoluble in water. Water is a polar solvent, while many organic compounds are non-polar. Like dissolves like, so organic compounds tend to be more soluble in other organic solvents.

* They are diverse in structure and function. The vast number of possible arrangements of carbon and other elements leads to a huge variety of organic compounds with a wide range of properties and uses.

Important Note: While these are common characteristics of organic compounds, there are always exceptions!