Question

From the options given below, which one of the following is a primary amine?

• A. \( \text{Ethylamine} \, (\text{CH}_3\text{CH}_2\text{NH}_2) \)
• B. \( \text{Diethylamine} \, (\text{CH}_3\text{CH}_2\text{NHCH}_2\text{CH}_3) \)
• C. \( \text{Triethylamine} \, (\text{N(CH}_2\text{CH}_3)_3) \)
• D. \( \text{Aniline} \, (\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{NH}_2) \)

Hint:

Primary amines have the general formula \( R-NH_2 \), where \( R \) is an alkyl or aryl group. Secondary and tertiary amines differ by the number of alkyl groups attached to the nitrogen atom.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

A primary amine is an organic compound characterized by the \( -NH_2 \) functional group, formed when one hydrogen atom in ammonia is substituted by an alkyl or aryl group. Of the provided choices, \( \text{Ethylamine} \) (structure \( \text{CH}_3\text{CH}_2\text{NH}_2 \)) possesses the \( -NH_2 \) group, identifying it as a primary amine. Conversely, \( \text{Diethylamine} \) and \( \text{Triethylamine} \) are classified as secondary and tertiary amines, respectively. \( \text{Aniline} \) also features an aromatic \( -NH_2 \) group.