CH2NH2
CH2NH2 is a chemical notation that commonly denotes the aminomethyl group, -CH2NH2, a functional substituent consisting of a methylene carbon attached to an amino group. In this usage, it is not a discrete standalone molecule but a fragment found in a wide range of organic compounds. The aminomethyl group is best recognized in benzylamines, such as benzylamine (Ph-CH2-NH2), where the group is linked to an aromatic ring through the methylene carbon. The presence of the amino group endows the molecule with basic, nucleophilic character, as the nitrogen can be protonated to form ammonium salts and participate in acylation and other reactions; the methylene carbon also offers a site for further transformations.
Synthesis and occurrence: In synthetic chemistry, the aminomethyl group can be introduced via reductive amination of
Reactivity and applications: Amine functionality makes these compounds versatile building blocks for further chemical elaboration, including
Safety: Amine-containing compounds can be irritants and possess characteristic odors; appropriate handling and ventilation are advised.
See also: Methylene group, Methylamine, Benzyl group, Benzylamine, Aminomethylation.