Chapter 16, Problem 16.1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The difference between primary, secondary, and tertiary amines in terms of bonding to the nitrogen atom is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

Amines are nitrogen-containing organic compounds. The general formula of amines is $\text{R}-{\text{NH}}_{\text{2}}$. Amines can be classified as primary amine, secondary amine, and tertiary amine.

Answer to Problem 16.1E

In primary amines, nitrogen atom is attached to one alkyl or aryl group. In secondary amines, nitrogen atom is attached to two alkyl or aryl groups. In tertiary amines, nitrogen atom is attached to three alkyl or aryl groups.

Explanation of Solution

In primary amines, one of the hydrogen atoms of ammonia is replaced by alkyl or aryl group. The nitrogen atom is attached to one alkyl or aryl group in primary amine.

In secondary amines, two of the hydrogen atoms of ammonia are replaced by alkyl or aryl group. The nitrogen atom is attached to the two alkyl or aryl groups in secondary amine.

In tertiary amines, all hydrogen atoms of ammonia are replaced by alkyl or aryl group. The nitrogen atom is attached to three alkyl or aryl groups in tertiary amine.

Conclusion

In primary amines, nitrogen atom is attached to one alkyl or aryl group. In secondary amines, nitrogen atom is attached to two alkyl or aryl groups. In tertiary amines, nitrogen atom is attached to three alkyl or aryl groups.