In an aqueous solution, what is the experimentally determined decreasing order of basic strength spe — Amines Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

For the larger ethyl group, the +I effect is much stronger than in the methyl case, pushing the $3^\circ$ amine ahead of the $1^\circ$ amine despite poor hydration. However, the $2^\circ$ amine still maintains the optimal thermodynamic balance of +I and hydration stabilization, resulting in the order $2^\circ > 3^\circ > 1^\circ > NH_3$.