What is the meaning of "vital force theory" in organic chemistry

What is the meaning of "vital force theory" in organic chemistry?

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In 1815 AD, a Swedish chemist J.J. Berzelius put forward vital force theory to explain the origin of organic compound. According to this theory, organic compound are formed and synthesized only within living species( plants and animals ). The word ‘vital’ is derives from Latin term ‘vita’ which means life. This theory emphasizes on a special force or a living force or presence of life as basic requirement for formation of organic compounds. This theory does not account synthesis of organic compounds in laboratory.

However, in 1828 AD, a German chemist Friedrich Wohlev synthesized organic compound ‘urea’ from simple inorganic compounds like NH4Cl (ammonium chloride) and KCNO ( potassium cynate ). This theory defied the vital force theory.

NH4Cl + KCNO ———————→ NH4CNO +KCl

The right hand side is urea organic compound ).

Organic Chemistry | Definition of Organic Chemistry

What Is Organic Chemistry?

Organic chemistry is the study of the structure, properties, composition, reactions, and preparation of carbon-containing compounds, which include not only hydrocarbons but also compounds with any number of other elements, including hydrogen (most compounds contain at least one carbon–hydrogen bond), nitrogen, oxygen, halogens, phosphorus, silicon, and sulfur. This branch of chemistry was originally limited to compounds produced by living organisms but has been broadened to include human-made substances such as plastics. The range of application of organic compounds is enormous and also includes, but is not limited to, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, food, explosives, paints, and cosmetics.