Action of `HNO_2` on `CH_3NH_2` gives

Options

A. `CH_3OH`
B. `CH_3- O- CH_3`
C. `CH_3 -O-N=O`
D. B and C both

Answer

To solve the question regarding the action of nitrous acid (HNO₂) on methylamine (CH₃NH₂), we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Reactants:**
The reactants in this reaction are methylamine (CH₃NH₂) and nitrous acid (HNO₂).

2. **Understand the Role of Nitrous Acid:**
Nitrous acid acts as a reagent that can convert primary amines into alcohols. It does this through a series of steps involving the formation of a diazonium ion.

3. **Formation of the Diazonium Ion:**
When methylamine reacts with nitrous acid, it forms a diazonium ion. The reaction can be represented as:
\[ CH_3NH_2 + HNO_2 \rightarrow CH_3N_2^+ + H_2O \]
Here, the amine group (NH₂) is converted into a diazonium ion (N₂⁺) with the release of water.

4. **Stabilization of the Diazonium Ion:**
The diazonium ion is unstable and can undergo further reactions. In this case, it can rearrange or react with water to form an alcohol.

5. **Hydrolysis of the Diazonium Ion:**
Upon hydrolysis, the diazonium ion can be converted into an alcohol. The reaction can be represented as:
\[ CH_3N_2^+ + H_2O \rightarrow CH_3OH + N_2 + H^+ \]
This indicates that methyl alcohol (methanol) is formed along with nitrogen gas (N₂) and a proton (H⁺).

6. **Final Product:**
The final product of the reaction between methylamine and nitrous acid is methanol (CH₃OH).

### Conclusion:
The action of HNO₂ on CH₃NH₂ gives methanol (CH₃OH).