How are inorganic compounds characterized?

Inorganic compounds are primarily characterized by their lack of carbon content and their origins that are not related to living organisms. This distinction is fundamental in chemistry; inorganic compounds typically include minerals, metals, and salts, which can be found in the Earth’s crust and do not originate from biological processes.

The definition of inorganic compounds excludes carbon-containing substances, with some exceptions such as carbonates and oxides of carbon, which are categorized differently. Additionally, since inorganic compounds are not derived from living matter, they play different roles in the environment compared to organic compounds, which are fundamentally linked to biological entities.

Understanding this concept is essential for water operators, as many inorganic compounds can impact water quality, influencing factors like pH, conductivity, and the presence of toxic elements. This knowledge is critical for effective water treatment and management practices.