Amines

Question 1

What is an amine?

Answer 1

An amine is an organic derivative of ammonia. One of the hydrogens in ammonia is replaced by an organic group, e.g. a methyl group to produce methylamine.

Question 2

Will small amines dissolve in water?

Answer 2

Yes, small amines will dissolve in water to give an alkaline solution.

Question 3

Why will small amines dissolve in water?

Answer 3

Small amines will dissolve in water because they have the ability to form hydrogen bonds with the water molecules.

Question 4

The larger the amine, the greater the…???…forces between the amine molecules?

Answer 4

The larger the amine, the greater the London forces between the amine molecules.

This means that the compound will be less soluble.

Question 5

What is formed when amines dissolve in water?

Answer 5

When amines dissolve in water, an alkaline solution forms, forming alkyl ammonium ions and hydroxide ions:

CH3CH2NH + H2O ⇔ CH3VH2NH2 + OH-