Degrees of Substitution
Chemistry: IB Diploma Higher Level, topic 3.7.1
Degrees of Substitution
Carbon and nitrogen atoms within organic molecules can be defined as primary, secondary, or tertiary, depending on the number of carbon atoms they are bonded to.
Primary, secondary and tertiary carbons
- Each carbon atom in an organic molecule can be defined as primary (1°), secondary (2°) or tertiary (3°).
- The type of carbon is established by considering how many other carbons are directly bonded to the carbon attached to a functional group.
- Examples with alcohols are shown above, with methanol the reference point.
Primary, secondary and tertiary nitrogens
- Nitrogen atoms in organic molecules can also be defined as primary (1°), secondary (2°), or tertiary (3°).
- The type of nitrogen present is established by considering how many carbons are directly bonded to the nitrogen centre.
- Examples with amines are shown above, with ammonia the reference point.
Test yourself on Degrees of Substitution
What class of alcohol is the following?
CH3CH2OHWhat class of amine is the following?
(CH3)3N