Chapter 23, Problem 38PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Classification of nitrogen atom in spermine as primary, secondary or tertiary amine has to be done.

Concept Introduction:

If nitrogen atom is attached to two hydrogen atoms in a compound, it is called primary amine.  If nitrogen atom is attached to one hydrogen atoms in a compound, it is called secondary amine.  If nitrogen atom is attached to three alkyl groups and no hydrogen atoms in a compound, it is called tertiary amine.

To find: Classify the nitrogen atom in spermine as primary, secondary or tertiary amine

Categorize the nitrogen atom as primary amine in spermine

Answer to Problem 38PP

Classification of nitrogen atom in spermine as primary, secondary or tertiary amine is

Explanation of Solution

The given compound, spermine contains totally four nitrogen atoms.  Among them, two of each nitrogen atom is connected with two hydrogen atoms.  So, it belongs to primary amine.

Categorize the nitrogen atom as secondary amine in spermine

The given compound, spermine contains totally four nitrogen atoms.  Among them, two of each nitrogen atom is connected with one hydrogen atom.  So, it belongs to secondary amine.

Therefore, classification of nitrogen atom in spermine as primary, secondary or tertiary amine is

Conclusion

Conclusion

Classification of nitrogen atom in spermine as primary, secondary or tertiary amine should be done by using the concept of number of hydrogen atoms attached to nitrogen atom.