Problem 18 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Formaldehyde \(+\mathrm{NH}_{3} \longrightarrow \mathrm{Y} .\) The product \(\mathrm{Y}\) is (a) hexamethylene tetramine (b) formamide (c) paraformaldehyde (d) methanol

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The product Y is hexamethylenetetramine (option a).

Step 1: Analyze the Reaction

The given reaction is formaldehyde ((CH_2O) reacting with ammonia ((NH_3) to form a product (Y). This needs to be analyzed based on typical reactions involving these compounds.

Step 2: Identify Product Formation

Formaldehyde and ammonia can combine in a chemical reaction to form a well-known compound, hexamethylenetetramine. There is no common reaction between these reactants that yields formamide, paraformaldehyde, or methanol directly.

Step 3: Verify Product Characteristics

Hexamethylenetetramine, also known as methenamine, is commonly synthesized from formaldehyde and ammonia. It appears as a crystalline compound and is used in medicine and as a solid fuel.

Step 4: Conclusion

Based on the analysis and common reaction pathways, it is concluded that the reaction between formaldehyde and ammonia results in the formation of hexamethylenetetramine.

Key Concepts

Hexamethylenetetramine

Hexamethylenetetramine, often referred to as methenamine, is a fascinating compound with various applications. It is widely known for its role as a medication and as a solid fuel component. The chemical formula for hexamethylenetetramine is C₆H₁₂N₄. It forms as a result of the reaction between formaldehyde and ammonia.

• Formaldehyde provides a source of carbon and oxygen, while ammonia introduces nitrogen into the structure.
• This reaction results in a crystalline compound, which is stable and has practical uses in daily life.

Hexamethylenetetramine is commonly used in medicine, particularly for urinary tract infections, where it acts as a bacteriostatic agent. Additionally, due to its ability to release formaldehyde upon heating, it serves as a powerful solid fuel in camping stoves.

Chemical Synthesis

Chemical synthesis involves combining simpler substances to form more complex compounds. This is a fundamental aspect of chemistry, allowing chemists to create a wide range of products. In the case of hexamethylenetetramine, the synthesis involves formaldehyde and ammonia.

• Formal synthesis pathway starts with mixing formaldehyde and ammonia under controlled conditions, leading to the formation of hexamethylenetetramine.
• The reaction conditions, such as temperature and concentration, are crucial for the successful synthesis of the desired product.

Understanding the principles of chemical synthesis is essential in the field of chemistry, especially for the development of new materials and medications. This process also allows chemists to manipulate molecules and produce substances with specific characteristics and functions.

Organic Chemistry Reactions

Organic chemistry reactions involve the transformation of organic molecules, which are compounds predominantly containing carbon atoms. These reactions are vital in creating substances that are used in a myriad of industries and applications. The reaction between formaldehyde and ammonia to form hexamethylenetetramine is a perfect example.

• This type of reaction illustrates the concept of nucleophilic addition, where the nitrogen from ammonia attacks the carbon in formaldehyde.
• Such reactions often involve mechanisms that explain how bonds are formed and broken to generate the final product.

Nucleophilic addition is a common mechanism in organic chemistry, enabling the construction of a wide array of organic compounds. By studying these reactions, chemists can design and predict the behavior of molecules in various chemical environments, contributing to advancements in chemical manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.