Definition of Imine



An imine is a functional group or a chemical compound that is composed of carbon and nitrogen. The carbon and nitrogen in an imine are linked with each other through a double bond. This nitrogen atom can be further bonded to a hydrogen atom or an alkyl (–R) group.

 


In imines, when the NR group is being replaced with an oxygen atom, they give rise to aldehydes and ketones. When the R group is a hydrogen atom, the compound is known as primary imine. On the other hand, if the R group is an alkyl, the compound is then known to be secondary imine. This functional group shows a wide range of reactivity.  


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