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Multiple Choice
Which of the following represents the general formula for a secondary amine?
A
B
C
D
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the classification of amines based on the number of alkyl or aryl groups attached to the nitrogen atom: primary amines have one R group, secondary amines have two R groups, and tertiary amines have three R groups attached to nitrogen.
Recall that the general formula for a primary amine is \(\mathrm{RNH_2}\), where one alkyl or aryl group (R) is bonded to nitrogen along with two hydrogens.
For a secondary amine, two R groups are bonded to the nitrogen atom, along with one hydrogen atom, giving the general formula \(\mathrm{R_2NH}\).
A tertiary amine has three R groups attached to nitrogen and no hydrogens, so its general formula is \(\mathrm{R_3N}\).
Compare the given options to these general formulas and identify the one that matches \(\mathrm{R_2NH}\), which represents a secondary amine.