Which one of the following is the strongest base in aqueous solution?
- (A)Trimethylamine
- (B)Aniline
- (C)Dimethylamine✓ Correct
- (D)Methylamine
Answer: (C)
Solution
In water the basicity of methyl-substituted amines reflects a balance between electron donation, which favours more alkyl groups, and the steric and solvation effects that penalise them. The outcome places the secondary amine highest, so dimethylamine is the strongest base of those listed. Aniline is far weaker because its nitrogen lone pair is drawn into the aromatic ring by resonance.
JEE Main · 2007 · 29 Apr 2007 · Offline · Single correct option