Tertiary (R3N)

Definition

In organic chemistry, a tertiary amine is an amine where the nitrogen atom is connected to three alkyl or aryl groups. This structure significantly affects the chemical reactivity and properties of the amine.

Related terms

Primary amine: An organic compound where one hydrogen atom in ammonia (NH3) is replaced by an alkyl or aryl group.

Secondary amine: An organic compound where two hydrogen atoms in ammonia are replaced by alkyl or aryl groups.

Quaternary ammonium compound: A compound in which four organic groups are bonded to a nitrogen atom, which carries a positive charge