Inorganic compounds are substances defined in chemistry that typically lack carbon-hydrogen bonds, differentiating them from organic compounds. These compounds often derive from non-living sources, such as minerals or elemental materials, and include substances like metal oxides, salts, and water. They exhibit a vast range of chemical properties and are fundamental components of natural systems, including the structure of biological molecules and the composition of geological features. The study of these compounds is crucial for understanding physical processes and the fundamental chemical makeup of the planet.