Which of the following best describes an organic compound?

An organic compound is best described as a compound that contains carbon atoms bonded to other carbon atoms or to atoms of other elements. This definition is central to organic chemistry, which primarily focuses on carbon-containing compounds. The presence of carbon is what distinguishes organic compounds from inorganic ones. Organic compounds can also contain various functional groups that contribute to their properties and reactivity, making them diverse and essential for life, as they include carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

The other options do not align with the fundamental criteria for classifying organic compounds. For example, a compound containing only hydrogen and oxygen does not meet the requirement for carbon, and similarly, compounds that do not contain carbon or are exclusive to inorganic substances do not fall within the definition of organic compounds. Thus, the correct answer articulates the essential aspect of organic chemistry, which highlights the significance of carbon in the structure of these compounds.