Chapter 27, Problem 54E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A method for the preparation of propanamine from chloroethane should be given.

Concept introduction:

Amines are the class of organic compounds that contains a nitrogen atom. Amines are commonly classified as primary, secondary and tertiary amines. The classification is based on the number of alkyl groups directly attached to the nitrogen atom.

Amine group can be introduced to a carbon chain by the use of cyanide anion because it can be reduced to an amine group.

Nucleophilic substitution reaction $\left({\text{S}}_{\text{N}}2\right)$ is a single step substitution reaction in which electron rich species substitute leaving group. The attack takes place from the back side of the electrophilic center thus an inversion of the configuration takes place. Also, there is a single transition state because bond breaking and bond making occurs simultaneously.