The bond angle in trimethylamine is notably wider (approx. ) than the bond angle in ammonia (~ ). What is the primary reason for this anomaly?

Question

The $C-N-C$ bond angle in trimethylamine is notably wider (approx. $108^\circ$) than the bond angle in ammonia (~ $107^\circ$). What is the primary reason for this anomaly?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. While the lone pair normally compresses the bond angle, the severe steric hindrance and physical repulsion between the three bulky methyl groups in trimethylamine pushes the bond angle back open to approximately .

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