The Vespiary

The Hive => Chemistry Discourse => Topic started by: xxxxx on May 01, 2004, 11:04:00 PM

Title: dialkylamines from ethers
Post by: xxxxx on May 01, 2004, 11:04:00 PM

i once read that a dialkylamine was produced from passing an ether over alumina with ammonia at an elevated temperature. the reaction would probably be thermodynamically favorable but the mechanics of such a reaction confuse me. is this reaction known, regarding reaction conditions and is it general for ethers.

Title: In my opinion, it would probably be an SN2...
Post by: Rhodium on May 01, 2004, 11:37:00 PM

In my opinion, it would probably be an S_N2 reaction. The high temperatures and the catalysts are needed due to alkoxides being so terribly bad leaving groups.