Question detail
Which statement correctly describes the basicity of primary amines compared to tertiary amines?
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 tertiary amines
- B. Tertiary amines are less basic than primary amines
- C. Both have the same basicity
- D. Primary amines are more basic than tertiary amines
Answer
Tertiary amines are less basic than primary amines
Explanation
Tertiary amines are less basic than primary amines because the steric hindrance from the alkyl groups makes the nitrogen lone pair less available for protonation.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Nitrogen's Role
Students often confuse the lone pair on nitrogen in amines as being involved in bonding rather than its role in basicity.
Remember that the lone pair on nitrogen is what allows amines to accept protons (H+), which is the basis for their basicity.
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