Amines: Essential Molecules In Biological Systems
Amines What are Amines? Amines are organic compounds that contain basic nitrogen atoms with a lone pair of electrons. They are derivatives of ammonia (NH3) wherein one or more of the hydrogen atoms are replaced by organic substituents such as alkyl or aryl groups. Due to the presence of the nitrogen atom, amines have basic properties and can act as Brønsted bases. Classification of Amines Amines can be classified into three main categories based on the number of carbon atoms attached to the nitrogen atom: Primary Amines Primary Amines contain one alkyl or aryl substituent attached to the nitrogen atom. For example, methylamine (CH3-NH2), and ethylamine (C2H5-NH2). They are the most reactive category of amines. Secondary Amines Secondary amines have two carbon substituents attached to the nitrogen. Examples include dimethylamine ((CH3)2-NH) and diethylamine ((C2H5)2-NH). They are less reactive than primary amines but more reactive than tertiary amines. Tertiary Amines ...