C5H13N

C5H13N is the molecular formula for a family of amines that contain five carbon atoms and one nitrogen atom. For saturated, acyclic amines with no rings or double bonds, the general formula is CnH(2n+3)N, so with n = 5 the formula is C5H13N. This designation covers a set of structural isomers that share the same formula but differ in how the carbon framework is arranged and how the nitrogen is substituted.

Primary amines with five carbons can be arranged in several ways. Examples include pentan-1-amine (1-aminopentane), pentan-2-amine (2-aminopentane), and pentan-3-amine (3-aminopentane). Branched skeletons also yield primary amines, such as 3-methylbutan-1-amine and 2-methylbutan-1-amine, as well as neopentylamine (2,2-dimethylpropan-1-amine). In addition, the same formula accommodates secondary and tertiary amines, where the nitrogen carries one or more carbon substituents totaling five carbons (for example, ethylpropan-amine-type secondary amines or N-substituted tertiary amines composed of three carbon substituents whose total is five carbons).

Physically, amines are weak bases and can form hydrogen bonds, which influences their boiling points and solubility. Isomeric C5H13N compounds range from volatile to liquid at room temperature depending on branching and substituent arrangement. They find use as intermediates in organic synthesis, solvents, and precursors for pharmaceuticals, dyes, and agrochemicals. Safety considerations follow general amine hazards: irritation to skin and eyes, possible respiratory effects, and potential reactivity with acids to form ammonium salts.

See also: amines, pentane, organic nitrogen compounds.