Imine - Definition

An imine is the functional group or compound containing the functional group of a carbon-nitrogen double bond.

Reactions

Synthesis (by nucleophilic addition)

1. ketone or aldehyde + ammonia or primary amine ↔ tetrahedral carbonyl addition compound
   • tetrahedral carbonyl addition compound + acid (catalyst) ↔ imine + water

Nucleophilic addition

1. imine + ammonia or primary amine ↔ tetrahedral imine addition compound
   • tetrahedral imine addition compound + acid (catalyst) ↔ new imine

Reduction

1. imine -> amine

Hydrolysis

• Opposite of synthesis.