In the context of naming amines, in what type of amine is the $N$ atom bonded to two $C$ atoms?

• A. Quaternary ammonium ion
• B. Tertiary amine
• C. Primary amine
• D. Secondary amine

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the classification of amines based on the number of carbon atoms directly bonded to the nitrogen atom (N).
2. A primary amine (1°) has the nitrogen atom bonded to one carbon atom and two hydrogen atoms.
3. A secondary amine (2°) has the nitrogen atom bonded to two carbon atoms and one hydrogen atom.
4. A tertiary amine (3°) has the nitrogen atom bonded to three carbon atoms and no hydrogen atoms.
5. A quaternary ammonium ion has the nitrogen atom bonded to four carbon atoms and carries a positive charge, making it a positively charged species rather than a neutral amine.