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ORGANIC MATTER — THE STUFF OF LIFE
Carbon is very reactive so there are millions of organic compounds. Each atom has four bonds — it can attach itself to four other atoms at the same time. It has a particular affinity with hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus and readily joins on to other carbon atoms.
Some organic compounds are simple, such as ethanol or acetic acid (vinegar), but others are highly complex — carbon can form rings and long chains that may branch. There are natural organic chemicals that living matter is made of — we are made of them and so is our food. 
They include compounds such as amino acids (the building blocks of proteins), sugars, fats, hormones and vitamins.
Some natural organic compounds are toxic, such as snake or spider venom, and others can cause allergic reactions.
Carbon is very reactive so there are millions of organic compounds.