Describe and explain the difference in base strength between ammonia, primary aliphatic and primary aromatic amines.

Alkyl groups increase basicity because: 1) They push electron density onto the nitrogen atom, which makes the nitrogen lone pair more attractive to hydrogen ions. 2) They stabilise the positive charge on the nitrogen after the ion is formed.Aromatic groups decrease basic properties because the delocalisation of the benzene ring withdraws electron density from the nitrogen atom, which makes the nitrogen lone pair less available for protons. Therefore, primary aliphatic amines are more basic than ammonia, while primary aromatic amines are less basic than ammonia.

SB
Answered by Sophie B. Chemistry tutor

11800 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why do ionisation energies typically increase upon going across a period yet decrease upon going down a group?


What is Mass Spectrometry?


In terms of the structure and boiling point of graphite, explain why the melting point is high


State what is meant by the term structural isomer?


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