Explain how amides can be classified as primary, secondary or tertiary based on their structure.

  • Primary amides - The nitrogen is bonded to one carbonyl group (C=O) and two hydrogen atoms.
  • Secondary amides - The nitrogen is bonded to one carbonyl group (C=O), one hydrogen atom and one alkyl or aryl group.
  • Tertiary amides - The nitrogen is bonded to one carbonyl group (C=O), and two alkyl or aryl groups.

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What is the structure of the amide funtional group?

The amide functional group consists of a carbonyl (C=O) group adjacent to a nitrogen atom.

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How are secondary amides prepared from acyl chlorides?

Amides are prepared by reacting acyl chlorides with primary amines.


For example, N-methylethanamide can be prepared from ethanoyl chloride and methylamine:

CH3COCl + CH3NH2 ➔ CH3CONHCH3 + HCl

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How are primary amides prepared from acyl chlorides?

Amides are prepared by reacting acyl chlorides with ammonia.


For example, ethanamide can be prepared from ethanoyl chloride and ammonia:

CH3COCl + 2NH3 ➔ CH3CONH2 + NH4Cl

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