Why are amines basic?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an explanation of why amines exhibit basic properties. It is seeking to understand the chemical nature of amines and their ability to accept protons (H+) which is a characteristic of bases.
Answer
The lone pair of electrons on nitrogen in amines makes them basic.
The lone pair of electrons on nitrogen in amines is easily available for protonation, which makes amines basic.
Answer for screen readers
The lone pair of electrons on nitrogen in amines is easily available for protonation, which makes amines basic.
More Information
Amines can act as Lewis bases due to the lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom, which allows them to donate these electrons to electron-deficient species or protons.
Tips
A common mistake is forgetting that the nitrogen atom in amines is what contributes to their basic character, rather than just the presence of hydrogen or other groups.
Sources
- Explain why are amines basic in nature? - Toppr - toppr.com
- 24.3: Basicity of Amines - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- 21.4: Acidity and Basicity of Amines - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
