Write chemical equations for the following reactions: Ammonolysis of benzyl chloride and reaction of amine so formed with two moles of CH3Cl.

Let's break down the reactions you're interested in, starting with the ammonolysis of benzyl chloride, followed by the reaction of the amine produced with two moles of methyl chloride (CH3Cl).

Ammonolysis of Benzyl Chloride

The ammonolysis of benzyl chloride involves the reaction of benzyl chloride (C6H5CH2Cl) with ammonia (NH3). In this process, the chlorine atom is replaced by an amino group, resulting in the formation of benzylamine (C6H5CH2NH2) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) as a byproduct. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction can be represented as follows:

C6H5CH2Cl + NH3 → C6H5CH2NH2 + HCl

Understanding the Reaction

In this reaction, the nucleophilic ammonia attacks the electrophilic carbon atom in benzyl chloride, leading to the substitution of the chlorine atom. This is a classic example of nucleophilic substitution, where a nucleophile (NH3) replaces a leaving group (Cl).

Reaction of Benzylamine with Methyl Chloride

Next, we look at the reaction of the benzylamine formed with two moles of methyl chloride. Benzylamine (C6H5CH2NH2) can react with methyl chloride (CH3Cl) to form N,N-dimethylbenzylamine (C6H5CH2N(CH3)2) and hydrochloric acid (HCl). The balanced equation for this reaction is:

C6H5CH2NH2 + 2 CH3Cl → C6H5CH2N(CH3)2 + 2 HCl

Breaking Down the Reaction

In this step, the amine group of benzylamine acts as a nucleophile and attacks the carbon atom in methyl chloride. Since there are two moles of methyl chloride, the reaction occurs twice, leading to the formation of a dimethylated product. Each substitution results in the release of hydrochloric acid.

Summary of Reactions

• Ammonolysis of benzyl chloride produces benzylamine and HCl.
• Benzylamine reacts with two moles of methyl chloride to form N,N-dimethylbenzylamine and HCl.

These reactions illustrate important concepts in organic chemistry, such as nucleophilic substitution and the reactivity of amines. Understanding these processes is crucial for grasping more complex organic synthesis pathways.