What is the primary focus of organic chemistry?

The primary focus of organic chemistry is indeed on the study of compounds that contain carbon, which are typically associated with living organisms or were once part of living organisms. This includes a vast array of substances such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which are fundamental to biological processes. Organic chemistry examines not only the structure and function of these compounds but also their reactions and interactions, which are crucial for understanding life at the molecular level.

The other choices do not align with the core tenets of organic chemistry. The study of metals and minerals pertains more to inorganic chemistry or mineralogy, while the analysis of non-carbon compounds falls outside the scope of organic chemistry. Additionally, understanding chemical reactions in inorganic substances also focuses on elements and compounds that do not primarily include carbon, which again is not the primary focus of organic chemistry.