Question:

Which reagent is used to distinguish between C$_2$H$_5$NH$_2$ and (C$_2$H$_5$)$_2$NH ?

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Carbylamine test is given only by primary amines. Secondary and tertiary amines do not respond to this test.
Updated On: Jun 29, 2026
  • KMnO$_4$
  • CHCl$_3$ + KOH (ethanolic)
  • NaOH + I$_2$
  • Neutral FeCl$_3$
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Ethylamine is a primary amine. Diethylamine is a secondary amine. Primary and secondary amines can be distinguished by the carbylamine test.

Step 1: Carbylamine reaction. Primary amines react with: \[ CHCl_3 + KOH \] to produce foul-smelling isocyanides. General reaction: \[ RNH_2+CHCl_3+3KOH \rightarrow RNC+3KCl+3H_2O \]

Step 2: Behaviour of ethylamine. \[ C_2H_5NH_2 \] is a primary amine. Therefore it gives positive carbylamine test.

Step 3: Behaviour of diethylamine. \[ (C_2H_5)_2NH \] is a secondary amine. Secondary amines do not give carbylamine test.

Step 4: Conclusion. Only ethylamine produces foul-smelling isocyanide. Therefore the reagent used for distinction is: \[ \boxed{CHCl_3 + KOH} \] Hence option (B) is correct.
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