Why is ethylamine a stronger base than phenylamine?

A base is a proton acceptor. 

Amines work as bases due to the electronegativity of the nitrogen atom. The lone pair in the nitrogen atom is filled in a 2p(z) orbital, in phenylamine, the p orbital sufficiently overlaps with the p orbitals in the phenyl ring, thus causing the electron density to be spread over a larger area, or delocalised, thus reducing the basicity of the nitrogen atom.

On the other hand, in ethylamine, the nitrogen atom cannot overlap with any other atom and so the electron density is concentrated around the atom, or it's localised, thus increasing the basicity as it's able to attract protons more easily. 

AM
Answered by Adhib M. Chemistry tutor

10452 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Draw the synthesis reactions, with relevant conditions and reagents, for the synthesis of ethanamine from ethane.


How do I predict the shape and bond angle of an molecule?


Compare the structures of Diamond and Graphite, making references to the bonding, the shape of the structures, and location of the electrons within the structures. Account for the fact that graphite conducts electricity and diamond does not.


Briefly discuss Le Chatelier's Principle. Ammonia is made in the Haber Process (3H2(g) + N2(g)<-> 2NH3(g)). Using Le Chetelier's Principal, what happens to the equilibrium yield of ammonia when...: A) Temp increases, B) Press increases C) Catalyst changes


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning