2,6-dimethylaniline

Definition

2,6-dimethylaniline is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₆H₇N. It is a derivative of aniline, with two methyl groups attached to the benzene ring at the 2 and 6 positions. This structural feature makes 2,6-dimethylaniline an important compound in the context of naming amines.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The presence of two methyl substituents at the 2 and 6 positions on the benzene ring of aniline gives 2,6-dimethylaniline its distinctive name and structural features.
2. The positions of the methyl groups are indicated using the numbers 2 and 6, which refer to their locations on the benzene ring relative to the amino group.
3. Dimethylated anilines, like 2,6-dimethylaniline, are important intermediates in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other specialty chemicals.
4. The steric hindrance created by the two methyl groups in the 2 and 6 positions can influence the reactivity and properties of 2,6-dimethylaniline compared to aniline.
5. The systematic naming of 2,6-dimethylaniline follows the IUPAC rules for naming substituted anilines, where the position of the substituents is indicated by numbers.

Review Questions

• Explain how the presence of two methyl groups at the 2 and 6 positions on the benzene ring of aniline affects the structure and properties of 2,6-dimethylaniline.
  • The two methyl groups attached at the 2 and 6 positions on the benzene ring of aniline create steric hindrance around the amino group in 2,6-dimethylaniline. This steric effect can influence the reactivity and physical properties of the compound, such as its boiling point, solubility, and susceptibility to certain chemical reactions. Additionally, the positions of the methyl groups are specifically indicated using the numbers 2 and 6 to distinguish 2,6-dimethylaniline from other possible isomers, following the IUPAC naming conventions for substituted anilines.
• Describe the importance of 2,6-dimethylaniline as an intermediate in the synthesis of various chemical products.
  • 2,6-Dimethylaniline is an important intermediate compound used in the production of a wide range of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other specialty chemicals. Its unique structural features, including the two methyl substituents, make it a valuable precursor for the synthesis of more complex molecules. The ability to control the positioning and number of substituents on the aniline backbone allows for the creation of diverse derivatives with tailored properties, making 2,6-dimethylaniline a versatile building block in organic synthesis.
• Analyze how the systematic naming of 2,6-dimethylaniline reflects its structural characteristics and follows the IUPAC rules for naming substituted anilines.
  • The systematic name 2,6-dimethylaniline clearly conveys the structural features of the compound. The numbers 2 and 6 indicate the positions of the two methyl substituents on the benzene ring, relative to the amino group. This naming convention follows the IUPAC rules for naming substituted anilines, where the positions of the substituents are specified using numbers. The inclusion of the term 'dimethyl' indicates the presence of two methyl groups, while 'aniline' identifies the compound as a derivative of the parent aniline structure. This systematic approach to naming ensures clear and unambiguous identification of 2,6-dimethylaniline and allows for the accurate communication of its structural characteristics.

Related terms

Aniline:

Aniline is an organic compound with the formula C₆H₇N. It is the simplest aromatic amine and serves as a precursor to a large number of chemical products.

Substituent:

A substituent is an atom or group of atoms that replaces a hydrogen atom in an organic compound, altering its properties and reactivity.

Nomenclature:

Nomenclature is the system of naming chemical compounds, which follows specific rules and conventions to ensure clear and unambiguous identification.