C2H5NH2

Ethylamine, also known as ethanamine, is an organic compound with the formula C2H7N (often written as C2H5NH2). It is a primary amine derived from ethane by replacing one hydrogen with an amino group. At room temperature it is a colorless, flammable liquid with a pungent, ammonia-like odor. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents. Ethylamine acts as a weak base; in water it accepts protons to give the ethylammonium ion, with the pKa of its conjugate acid about 10.7, corresponding to a pKb near 3.3.

Industrial production typically involves hydrogenation of acetonitrile (CH3CN) or reductive amination of acetaldehyde, using hydrogen and a suitable catalyst. Alternative routes include amination of ethanol under catalytic conditions. Ethylamine is a versatile building block in organic synthesis and is used to prepare ethyl-substituted amines, amides, ureas, and various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It also serves as a precursor to surfactants and dye auxiliaries.

Safety and handling: Ethylamine is corrosive and can irritate skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. It is flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. It should be handled in a fume hood with appropriate personal protective equipment and stored away from oxidizers. It reacts with strong oxidizers and can release toxic vapors in a fire. Environmental considerations include potential toxicity to aquatic life.

See also: Ethylammonium salts, Methylamine, Propylamine, Aniline.