What type of compounds are referred to as inorganic?

Inorganic compounds are defined primarily as substances that do not contain carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds, which distinguishes them from organic compounds. Non-organic substances encompass a broad range of materials, including minerals, metals, salts, and many gases. These compounds may consist of metals, nonmetals, and metalloids, and typically include substances such as water (H2O), sodium chloride (NaCl), and various minerals.

The classification of compounds as inorganic is crucial, especially in fields like chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology, because it highlights differences in chemical behavior, reactivity, and potential applications. Understanding these distinctions allows scientists and engineers to effectively utilize inorganic materials in various applications, including catalysis, electronics, and nanomaterials development.