An amine is an organic compound, similar to ammonia (NH₃), that contains a nitrogen atom bonded to one or more alkyl groups on each molecule. Similar to alcohols, amines can be classified as primary secondary or tertiary. It may be necessary to include a number in the suffix to indicate which carbon group the amine is attached to. Secondary and tertiary amines are named using the locator, N, to indicate the attachment of additional chains to the nitrogen atom. Amines are polar and many can hydrogen bond. Amines have higher melting and boiling points than their corresponding alkanes. Small amines are soluble in water. Amines behave as weak bases in water. Amines can undergo neutralization reactions with acid. Primary amines can be synthesized by reacting an alkyl halide with ammonia. Secondary amines require an alkyl halide and a primary amine. Tertiary amines require an alkyl halide and a secondary amine.

In comparison, an amide is an organic compound that contains a carbonyl group bonded to a nitrogen atom. Amides can be synthesized by the condensation reaction of a carboxylic acid with ammonia or a primary or secondary amine. Amides are weak bases. Low molecular weight amides are soluble in water. Amides that have the ability to hydrogen bond will have higher melting and boiling points. Under acidic or basic conditions, amides can undergo a hydrolysis reaction (the reverse of condensation) to form an amine (or ammonia) and a carboxylic acid. Amines and amides are abundant in nature. They are a major component of proteins and enzymes, nucleic acids, alkaloid drugs (Nitrogen containing, weakly basic organic compounds).

(Functional Groups)