# Methylamine (CH₃NH₂) is a simple amine that has a fishy smell and dissolves readily in water. Explain why methylamine is classified as an amine and describe the type of solution formed when methylamine dissolves in water, including why that type of solution is formed.

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

> Methylamine (CH₃NH₂) is produced industrially and is used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals. It has a strong, unpleasant fishy odour and dissolves readily in water.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Methylamine contains a nitrogen atom / NH₂ group bonded to a carbon atom / hydrocarbon group
2. Amines are derived from ammonia / are related to ammonia in structure
3. The solution formed is alkaline / basic
4. Methylamine / the amine accepts a proton from water OR donates a lone pair of electrons to a proton / reacts with water to produce hydroxide ions (OH⁻)
5. Amines are bases (like ammonia) / the nitrogen lone pair makes amines basic

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Chemistry](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/methylamine-ch-nh-is-a-simple-amine-1bd9b3a1) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.