Question:medium

Which reagent is used to distinguish between C$_2$H$_5$NH$_2$ and (C$_2$H$_5$)$_2$NH ?

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Carbylamine test is given only by primary amines. Secondary and tertiary amines do not respond to this test.
Updated On: Jun 29, 2026
  • KMnO$_4$
  • CHCl$_3$ + KOH (ethanolic)
  • NaOH + I$_2$
  • Neutral FeCl$_3$
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Classify the two amines.
$C_2H_5NH_2$ is a primary amine (one $N-H$ group attached to alkyl); $(C_2H_5)_2NH$ is a secondary amine (two alkyl groups on N).
Step 2: Carbylamine test distinguishes them.
Only primary amines react with $CHCl_3$ and alc. $KOH$ to produce a foul-smelling isocyanide: $RNH_2 + CHCl_3 + 3KOH \rightarrow RNC + 3KCl + 3H_2O$. Secondary and tertiary amines give no reaction.
Step 3: Apply test.
$C_2H_5NH_2$ gives a distinct foul smell (positive test); $(C_2H_5)_2NH$ gives no response. This cleanly distinguishes the two.
\[ \boxed{CHCl_3 + KOH \text{ (ethanolic)}} \]
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