Understanding Aniline
Aniline is an organic compound with the formula C₆H₅NH₂. It consists of a phenyl group (C₆H₅) attached to an amino group (NH₂). To determine the oxidation number of nitrogen in aniline, we need to analyze its structure.
Oxidation Number Definition
- The oxidation number (or oxidation state) refers to the degree of oxidation of an atom in a compound.
- It helps in understanding electron transfer during chemical reactions.
Determining the Oxidation Number of Nitrogen in Aniline
1. Identify the Bonding Environment:
- In aniline, nitrogen is bonded to two hydrogen atoms and one carbon atom.
- The structure can be represented as C₆H₅-NH₂.
2. Use the General Rules:
- The oxidation number of hydrogen is typically +1.
- The oxidation number of carbon in organic compounds is usually considered to be +4 or 0 depending on its bonding.
3. Calculate the Oxidation State:
- Let the oxidation number of nitrogen be x.
- The contributions are:
- From 2 hydrogen atoms: 2(+1) = +2
- From 1 carbon atom: 1(-3) = -3 (since carbon is bonded to three hydrogens in phenyl)
- The equation becomes:
x + 2 = -3
4. Solve for x:
- Rearranging gives:
x = -3 - 2
x = -5
Conclusion
- The oxidation number of nitrogen in aniline is -3.
- This negative oxidation state reflects that nitrogen is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms it is bonded to.
Understanding these concepts is essential for NEET aspirants, as they form the basis for analyzing organic compounds and their reactivity.