Organochlorines are a class of chemical compounds that contain carbon and chlorine atoms. They can be found in various forms, including pesticides like DDT, industrial chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and natural substances like hormones and alkaloids. These compounds are highly stable due to the strong carbon-chlorine bond, which makes them resistant to degradation in the environment. They can persist for long periods of time and travel long distances through air, water, and soil, leading to bioaccumulation in living organisms and potential health risks.