Question detail
How does the basicity of primary amines compare to that of ammonia?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Amines (A-level only)
Question
- A. Primary amines are less basic than ammonia
- B. Primary amines are equally basic as ammonia
- C. Primary amines are more basic than ammonia
- D. Primary amines have no basicity
Answer
Primary amines are more basic than ammonia
Explanation
Primary amines are more basic than ammonia because the alkyl groups attached to the nitrogen atom increase electron density, making the lone pair more available for protonation. This key difference in structure leads to enhanced basicity in primary amines compared to ammonia.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Basicity
Students often confuse the basicity of amines with that of ammonia, thinking they are identical.
Amines have varying basicity depending on their structure and substituents, while ammonia has a consistent basicity. Understand that the presence of alkyl groups in amines can increase their basicity compared to ammonia.
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