# Amines are a family of organic compounds that can be produced from ammonia. Describe the structure of an amine and explain why amines are classified as bases.

> Eduqas A-Level Chemistry — 4.6 Amines · Describe and Explain · 5 marks

> Methylamine, CH₃NH₂, is the simplest amine. Like ammonia, it reacts with water and with acids.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. An amine contains a nitrogen atom bonded to one or more carbon-containing (hydrocarbon/alkyl) groups
2. Amines contain a lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom
3. A base is a proton acceptor / substance that accepts H⁺ ions
4. The lone pair on nitrogen accepts a proton (H⁺) from water or an acid
5. This produces an OH⁻ ion in water / produces an alkaline solution / the amine acts similarly to ammonia in water

## Key terms

- [amine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/amine)
- [base](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/base)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Chemistry](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/amines-are-a-family-of-organic-d3318e1f) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.