Question

The number of moles of alkyl halides required to convert primary amine into quaternary ammonium salt is

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4
• E. 5

Hint:

The conversion of primary amine to a quaternary ammonium salt requires three moles of alkyl halides in a stepwise alkylation process.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To convert a primary amine into a quaternary ammonium salt, three moles of alkyl halide are typically required. The reaction follows these steps: 1. First alkylation: A primary amine reacts with one mole of alkyl halide to form a secondary amine. 2. Second alkylation: The secondary amine reacts with another mole of alkyl halide to form a tertiary amine. 3. Third alkylation: The tertiary amine then reacts with a third mole of alkyl halide to form a quaternary ammonium salt. Therefore, 3 moles of alkyl halides are needed to completely convert the primary amine to a quaternary ammonium salt. Thus, the correct answer is (C) 3.