Write chemical equations for the following reactions: (i) Reaction of ethanolic NH3 with C2H5Cl.

To understand the reaction between ethanolic ammonia (NH3 in ethanol) and ethyl chloride (C2H5Cl), we need to consider the nature of both reactants. Ethyl chloride is an alkyl halide, and when it reacts with ammonia, a nucleophilic substitution reaction occurs. This means that the ammonia acts as a nucleophile, attacking the carbon atom bonded to the chlorine in ethyl chloride, leading to the formation of a new product.

The Reaction Process

In this reaction, the ammonia molecule donates a pair of electrons to the carbon atom, which is attached to the chlorine atom. As a result, the chlorine atom is displaced, and we form an amine. The overall reaction can be represented as follows:

Chemical Equation

The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of ethanolic ammonia with ethyl chloride is:

C2H5Cl + NH3 → C2H5NH2 + HCl

Breaking Down the Equation

• C2H5Cl: This is ethyl chloride, where a chlorine atom is attached to an ethyl group (C2H5).
• NH3: This is ammonia, which in this case is dissolved in ethanol, acting as a solvent.
• C2H5NH2: This is ethylamine, the product formed when the chlorine atom is replaced by an amino group (NH2).
• HCl: Hydrochloric acid is produced as a byproduct when the chlorine atom is displaced.

Mechanism of the Reaction

The mechanism can be described in a few steps:

1. The lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom of ammonia attacks the carbon atom of ethyl chloride.
2. This leads to the formation of a transition state where the carbon is simultaneously bonded to both the chlorine and the nitrogen.
3. The bond between the carbon and chlorine breaks, resulting in the formation of ethylamine and hydrochloric acid.

Significance of the Reaction

This reaction is significant in organic chemistry as it demonstrates the principles of nucleophilic substitution, which is a fundamental reaction type. Ethylamine, the product, is an important compound used in various applications, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.

In summary, the reaction of ethanolic ammonia with ethyl chloride results in the formation of ethylamine and hydrochloric acid, showcasing a classic example of nucleophilic substitution in organic chemistry.