Question:medium

The correct order of the basic strength of methyl substituted amines in aqueous solution is:

Updated On: Apr 25, 2026
  • \((CH_3)_2NH>CH_3NH_2> (CH_3)_3N\)
  • \((CH_3)_2N> CH_3NH_2>(CH_3)_2NH\)
  • \((CH_3)_2N>(CH_3)_2NH>CH_3NH_2 \)
  • \(CH_3NH_2>(CH_3)_2NH>(CH_3)_3N \)
Show Solution

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

The basic strength of amines in an aqueous solution primarily depends on the availability of the lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom for protonation, which is influenced by the alkyl groups attached to the nitrogen. The electron-donating capacity of these alkyl groups increases the electron density on nitrogen, thereby enhancing its basicity.

In the case of methyl-substituted amines, the following factors influence their basic strength:

  1. Inductive Effect: Methyl groups \((CH_3)\) have a +I effect (electron-donating), which increases the electron density on nitrogen, enhancing the basicity.
  2. Steric Hindrance: More methyl groups increase steric hindrance, making the steric factor significant in determining basic strength.
  3. Solvation Effect: Ammonium ions (protonated amines) are more stabilized by hydrogen bonding with water. The solvation effect is more significant in smaller amines due to easier solvent access.

Let's analyze the given methyl-substituted amines:

  1. CH_3NH_2 (Methylamine) - Has one methyl group providing a moderate electron density increase.
  2. (CH_3)_2NH (Dimethylamine) - Two methyl groups enhance the electron density significantly compared to methylamine.
  3. (CH_3)_3N (Trimethylamine) - Three methyl groups offer maximum inductive effect but also introduce considerable steric hindrance, which reduces solvation.

Dimethylamine \((CH_3)_2NH\) presents a balance between high electron density and acceptable steric conditions, making it the strongest base. Methylamine \((CH_3NH_2)\) follows due to moderate electron donation and less steric hindrance. Trimethylamine \((CH_3)_3N\) has high steric hindrance, reducing solvation effect, and consequently, its basicity in aqueous solutions.

Order of Basic Strength: (CH_3)_2NH > CH_3NH_2 > (CH_3)_3N

Thus, the correct answer is: (CH_3)_2NH>CH_3NH_2>(CH_3)_3N.

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