Which of the following is a common industrial use of organic compounds?

Organic compounds play a crucial role in various industrial applications, particularly in the manufacture of plastics and pharmaceuticals. This option highlights the versatility of organic chemistry in producing materials that are foundational to many everyday products.

In the plastic industry, organic compounds such as polyethylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are synthesized to create a wide array of plastic items, from packaging materials to automotive parts. The pharmaceutical industry relies heavily on organic compounds as well, as they form the basis of many medications, from pain relievers to antibiotics. These compounds are designed to interact with biological systems, making them vital for healthcare.

While other options mention important uses, they are either too narrow or specific. For example, food preservation mainly involves different chemical agents that may not necessarily fall under the broad category of organic compounds and have limited industrial use compared to plastics and drugs. Similarly, the exclusive use in cosmetics represents only a fraction of what organic chemistry achieves in industry. Electrical insulation involves various materials, including inorganic compounds, which are specialized but do not encompass the broad range of organic applications.

Thus, the selected option captures the significance of organic compounds in two large and impactful sectors of the industrial landscape.