What type of materials do humic substances fall under?

Humic substances are classified as organic compounds because they are formed through the decomposition of organic matter. This process involves the breakdown of plant and animal residues, leading to complex mixtures that include humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin. These substances are essential in soil chemistry and ecology, playing a significant role in nutrient availability, soil structure, and enhancing microbial activity.

Being organic compounds means they contain carbon, which is a fundamental characteristic that distinguishes them from metallic compounds, inorganic salts, and gaseous substances. These other types of materials have distinct properties and compositions that do not align with the nature of humic substances. For example, metallic compounds generally consist of metal atoms bonded to non-metals, inorganic salts are composed of ionic compounds formed from the reaction between acids and bases, and gaseous substances are in a state of matter where molecules are widely separated and move freely. Thus, the classification of humic substances as organic compounds is supported by their formation process and molecular structure.