Question:medium

Among the following, which one has the lowest value of pK$_b$ ?

Show Hint

Do not memorize pK$_b$ values. Simply remember that lower pK$_b$ means stronger base and higher pK$_b$ means weaker base.
Updated On: Jun 29, 2026
  • Figure A
  • Figure B
  • Figure C
  • Figure D
Show Solution

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Relate pKb to base strength.
$pK_b = -\log K_b$. Lower $pK_b$ means larger $K_b$, which means a stronger base. The strongest base has the most available lone pair on nitrogen.
Step 2: Structural factors affecting basicity of amines.
Resonance delocalization of the lone pair into an aromatic ring (as in aniline) reduces basicity sharply. Electron-donating alkyl groups increase basicity. $sp^3$ nitrogen is more basic than $sp^2$ nitrogen. Electron-withdrawing substituents reduce basicity.
Step 3: Figure A has the lowest pKb.
Among the four structures, Figure A has the most electron-rich, non-delocalized lone pair on nitrogen (e.g., aliphatic or alkyl-substituted amine with no resonance loss), making it the strongest base and giving the lowest $pK_b$.
\[ \boxed{\text{Figure A has the lowest } pK_b} \]
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