Aminogruppper

Aminogruppper is not a standard term in English-language chemistry. It most likely refers to the amino group, a fundamental functional group in organic chemistry. The amino group is commonly written as -NH2 when attached to a carbon skeleton, and there are various classes based on substitution: primary amines (R-NH2), secondary amines (R2NH), and tertiary amines (R3N).

The amino group contains a nitrogen atom with a lone pair, which makes it basic and nucleophilic. It readily accepts protons to form ammonium ions (RNH3+) and can participate in a wide range of reactions. Common transformations include alkylation to form substituted amines, acylation to yield amides, and condensation with carbonyl compounds to form imines (Schiff bases).

Biologically and industrially, amino groups are highly important. In biology, amino groups are found in amino acids, where they facilitate peptide bond formation and confer basicity to the molecule. Amines derived from amino groups are used in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, dyes, and polymer chemistry, including curing agents for epoxies and various polyurethane formulations.

Examples of compounds with amino groups include methylamine (a simple aliphatic amine) and aniline (an aromatic amine). The properties of amino groups—basicity, nucleophilicity, and ability to engage in hydrogen bonding—drive many of their uses and reactions.

Safety and handling vary by compound but many amines are caustic, have strong odors, and can be irritating or toxic. Proper containment and ventilation are recommended when handling amines.

See also: amino group, amine, amino acid.