3.3.11.2. amine base properties

• why are amines weak bases?

  the lone electron pair on the nitrogen atom can accept protons
• what does the base strength of amines depend on?

  how available the electron pair is on the molecule
• how does an amine become a stronger base?

  the more available the electrons, the more likely it is to accept a proton
• benzene rings 


  draw electron density away from the nitrogen, making it 'less available'

  
• alkyl groups 


  push electron density towards the nitrogen making it 'more available' - more alkyl groups means more 'pushing'

  
• aliphatic amines vs aromatic amines


  stronger bases vs weaker bases