GRE Subject Test: Chemistry : Amine Chemistry

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GRE Subject Test: Chemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Functional Groups And Properties

Ephedrine (shown below) contains what type of amine?

Mcat_problem_set_1

Possible Answers:

Secondary

Neutral

Tertiary

Primary

Quaternary

Correct answer:

Secondary

Explanation:

A secondary amine is an amine (nitrogen atom) that is attached to two carbon-containing groups (alkyl groups or aryl groups). The nitrogen in ephedrine is attached to two alkyl groups, making it a secondary amine.

Primary amines are generally written as . Secondary amines are generally written as . A tertiary amine will be bound to three different R-groups. Quaternary amines require a positive charge on the nitrogen atom to accommodate a fourth R-group.

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