Q
QuestionChemistry

"Why are alkylamines more basic than arylamines? A) The lone pair electrons are localized in alkylamines and delocalized in arylamines. B) The lone pair electrons are delocalized in alkylamines and localized in arylamines. C) The lone pair electrons are less readily available in alkylamines. D) The lone pair electrons are more readily available in arylamines."
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Answer

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Step 1
: Understand the concept of basicity and the role of lone pair electrons in amines.

Alkylamines are more basic than arylamines because the lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom in alkylamines is more available for donation than in arylamines. This is due to the difference in the electron-donating ability of the alkyl and aryl groups attached to the nitrogen atom.

Step 2
: Recall the effect of electron-donating groups on basicity.

Electron-donating groups increase the electron density around the nitrogen atom, making the lone pair of electrons more available for donation and thus increasing the basicity of the amine.

Final Answer

The correct answer is A) The lone pair electrons are localized in alkylamines and delocalized in arylamines. This difference in electron availability results in alkylamines being more basic than arylamines.