What are the differences between an amine, amide and imine?

1 Answer
Mar 12, 2016

Amines are derivatives of #NH_3#. Amides are acid derivatives (or more rarely, anionic amines). Imines are nitrogen derivatives of carbonyl compounds.

Explanation:

Organic amines, #NR_3#, are derivatives of ammonia, #NH_3#. #"Amide"# is a term that represents (i) the acid derivative, #RC(=O)NR_2#, or (ii) the conjugate BASES of ammonia, for instance potassium amide, #KNH_2#, which is unknown in aqueous solution, but known in liquid ammonia. Normally, the context will distinguish which amide is meant, and mostly in organic chemistry, the acid derivative (the former) is the one that is specified.

On the other hand, an imine is a carbonyl derivative, #RC(=NR')R"#, formed by condensation of a carbonyl and an amine:

#RC(=O)R" + H_2NR' rarr RC(=NR')R +H_2O#

Capisce? This is a lot to take on board initially, I acknowledge, but practice and repetition are key. As I say, usually the context will determine the usage.