1. Carbohydrates: These are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are the primary energy source for living organisms and provide structural support. Examples include sugars, starches, and cellulose.
2. Lipids: These are a diverse group of compounds that are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. They include fats, oils, waxes, and steroids. Lipids are important for energy storage, insulation, and cell membrane structure.
3. Proteins: These are large molecules composed of amino acids. They have a wide range of functions, including catalyzing reactions (enzymes), transporting molecules, providing structural support, and defending the body against disease.
4. Nucleic acids: These are complex molecules composed of nucleotides. They are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information. The two main types of nucleic acids are DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).
There are other classes of organic compounds, but these four are the most fundamental and widely studied.
