Chapter 17.8, Problem 4QQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Number of R groups bonded to nitrogen atom in quaternary ammonium salt has to be chosen from the given options.

Concept Introduction:

Alkylation reaction is a reaction in which the transfer of alkyl group from one molecule to another molecule takes place.  While considering amines, the alkylating agent that is used is alkyl halides.  Alkylation is done under basic conditions.  The general equations for amines alkylation process is,

  $\begin{array}{l}\text{Ammonia}\text{+}\text{Alkyl}\text{halide}\stackrel{\text{Base}}{\to }\text{1°}\text{amine}\\ \text{1°}\text{amine}\text{+}\text{Alkyl}\text{halide}\stackrel{\text{Base}}{\to }\text{2°}\text{amine}\\ \text{2°}\text{amine}\text{+}\text{Alkyl}\text{halide}\stackrel{\text{Base}}{\to }\text{3°}\text{amine}\\ \text{3°}\text{amine}\text{+}\text{Alkyl}\text{halide}\stackrel{\text{Base}}{\to }\text{quaternary ammonium salt}\end{array}$