Which of the following compounds are considered organic in nature?

The classification of compounds as organic typically involves their carbon-based structure and their involvement in the chemistry of living organisms. Hydrocarbons, alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones are all characterized by the presence of carbon atoms, which is a key feature of organic compounds.

Hydrocarbons are compounds made up entirely of hydrogen and carbon, forming the basis of many organic substances. Alcohols contain one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to a carbon chain, while aldehydes and ketones have carbonyl (C=O) groups, making them integral to organic chemistry. These compounds are important not only for their roles in biological systems but also for their applications in various industries.

In contrast, the other options include substances that either do not contain carbon or are classified differently. Acids, bases, and salts are not exclusively organic as many of them can be inorganic. While sugars and starches are organic, the question appears to focus on the broader and diverse group of common organic compounds, which is why hydrocarbons, alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones represent a fundamental category within organic chemistry. Minerals and metals do not fall under organic chemistry as they lack the carbon-based structure essential to that classification.