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Nitrous Acid Test
HNO₂ (NaNO₂ + HCl) reacts differently with 1°, 2°, 3° amines — effervescence, oil, or dissolution.
How It Works
1
Three Unknown Amines
Tubes A, B, C contain 1°, 2°, and 3° amines.
2
Add NaNO₂ + HCl
Generates HNO₂ in situ. Each amine type reacts differently.
3
Observe the Result
N₂ bubbles = 1°. Yellow oil = 2°. Just dissolves = 3°.
Reaction Key
1° Aliphatic Amine:
Effervescence (N₂ gas)
Forms alcohol
2° Amine:
Yellow oily layer (N-nitrosoamine)
3° Aliphatic Amine:
Dissolves (forms salt, no nitrosation)