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Amines are organic molecules derived from ammonia with unpleasant odors but essential for life. They help create amino acids and build proteins, and many vitamins are made up of amines. Amines have various functions, including industrial applications, drug use, and neurotransmitter production. They are classified as primary, secondary, or tertiary based on the number of organic groups bonded to the central nitrogen atom.
Amines are a type of organic molecule derived from ammonia. They tend to have distinctive, unpleasant odors reminiscent of rotting fish. Despite their unpleasant smells, they are essential for the survival of life. Amines help create amino acids, which then help build living proteins. Many vitamins, essential substances for the sustenance of life, are also made up of amines.
Generally, an amine is a molecule that revolves around a single nitrogen atom. This nitrogen is usually bonded to two hydrogen atoms and a single group of other atoms. This is, however, only a general rule. One or both hydrogen atoms can be replaced by groups of other atoms and the molecule can still be classified as an amine.
In addition to the amines that make up the human body, mankind has found important uses for many others. Demerol and morphine are used as analgesics, generally known as pain relievers. Novocain and similar compounds are used as an anesthetic. Ephedra is an important decongestant. Tetramethylammonium iodide is used to disinfect drinking water.
Serotonin is generally considered an important amine, as it functions as one of the primary neurotransmitters used by the brain. It regulates feelings of heat and hunger and controls how fast the brain works. Serotonin influences feelings of happiness and is part of the brain’s ability to regulate the wake and sleep cycle.
Amines also have many other functions. Some are used for industrial applications, such as tanning and pest control. Aniline is used in the production of artificial dyes. Cadaverine and putrescine produce the odor of rotting and decaying flesh. Some amines, such as amphetamines and methamphetamines, are also used as recreational drugs.
Like ammonia, amines are bases, meaning they have a pH greater than seven. Because of this, they can be neutralized by acids. When this happens, they form alkylammonium salts, which themselves have many important properties. One of these salts, choline, is involved in the production of some of the other neurotransmitters that keep the human brain going.
Amines are classified as primary, secondary, or tertiary, depending on how many groups of organic compounds are bonded to the central nitrogen atom. An amine with two hydrogen atoms and one organic group is a primary amine. One with one hydrogen atom and two organic groups is secondary, while a nitrogen atom with three organic groups is called tertiary.
