Several additional amine syntheses are effectively limited 
to making primary amines. The reduction of azides 
and nitro compounds and the Gabriel synthesis leave 
the carbon chain unchanged. Formation and reduction 
of a nitrile adds one carbon atom. Show how these 
amine syntheses can be used for the following conversions.
(a) allyl bromide → allylamine 

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the starting material and the desired product: The starting material is allyl bromide (CH2=CH-CH2-Br) and the desired product is allylamine (CH2=CH-CH2-NH2).
2. Choose an appropriate synthesis method: Since we need to convert an alkyl halide to a primary amine without changing the carbon chain, the Gabriel synthesis is suitable.
3. Outline the Gabriel synthesis: In this method, allyl bromide will react with potassium phthalimide to form N-allylphthalimide.
4. Hydrolyze the N-allylphthalimide: Treat the N-allylphthalimide with hydrazine (NH2NH2) to release the primary amine, allylamine, and phthalhydrazide as a byproduct.
5. Verify the carbon chain: Ensure that the carbon chain remains unchanged throughout the process, confirming the successful synthesis of allylamine from allyl bromide.

Key Concepts

Amine Synthesis Methods

Amine synthesis methods are various chemical reactions used to produce amines, which are organic compounds containing nitrogen. Key methods include the reduction of azides and nitro compounds, as well as the Gabriel synthesis. Understanding these methods is crucial for converting specific organic substrates, such as allyl bromide, into the desired amine products.

Reduction Reactions

Reduction reactions involve the gain of electrons or hydrogen, resulting in the decrease of oxidation state of a molecule. In the context of amine synthesis, reducing agents can convert nitro groups or azides into amines while preserving the carbon skeleton. This principle is essential for transforming allyl bromide into allylamine through appropriate reduction techniques.

Nitrile Formation and Reduction

The formation of nitriles involves the introduction of a cyano group (-C≡N) into a molecule, which can subsequently be reduced to yield primary amines. This process adds a carbon atom to the chain, making it a valuable strategy in amine synthesis. Understanding how to manipulate nitrile chemistry is key to achieving the conversion of allyl bromide to allylamine.