Question

Term tertiary, secondary and primary amine represents the:

• A. Number of amino groups
• B. Nature of C atom
• C. Degree of substitution on nitrogen
• D. Degree of unsaturation

Answer 1

The correct option is C Degree of substitution on nitrogen

Amines are derivatives of ammonia where one or more $H$ atom is replaced by alkyl group.
If one hydrogen of ammonia is replaced by an alkyl/aryl group, it is called a primary amine.
Replacement of two hydrogen of ammonia by an alkyl/aryl results in a secondary amine.
If three hydrogens of ammonia are replaced by alkyl/aryl groups, it is called a tertiary amine.
So tertiary, secondary and primary amine represents the degree of subsitution on the nitrogen.