In each of the following pair of compounds, which is more basic in aqueous solution? Give an explanation for your choice:
`CH_(3)NH_(2)" or " CF_(3)NH_(2)`

Answer

To determine which of the two compounds, CH₃NH₂ (methylamine) or CF₃NH₂ (trifluoromethylamine), is more basic in aqueous solution, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand Basicity
Basicity is the ability of a compound to accept protons (H⁺ ions). In aqueous solution, a stronger base will have a greater tendency to donate its lone pair of electrons to a proton.

### Step 2: Analyze CH₃NH₂ (Methylamine)
- Methylamine (CH₃NH₂) has a nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms and one methyl group (CH₃).
- The methyl group has a +I (inductive) effect, which means it donates electron density towards the nitrogen atom.
- This increase in electron density on nitrogen makes it more capable of donating its lone pair of electrons to a proton, enhancing its basicity.

### Step 3: Analyze CF₃NH₂ (Trifluoromethylamine)
- Trifluoromethylamine (CF₃NH₂) has a nitrogen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms and one trifluoromethyl group (CF₃).
- The trifluoromethyl group has a -I (inductive) effect because fluorine is highly electronegative and pulls electron density away from the nitrogen atom.
- This decrease in electron density on nitrogen makes it less capable of donating its lone pair of electrons to a proton, reducing its basicity.

### Step 4: Compare Basicity
- Since CH₃NH₂ has a +I effect, it increases the electron density on nitrogen, making it more basic.
- In contrast, CF₃NH₂ has a -I effect, which decreases the electron density on nitrogen, making it less basic.

### Conclusion
Therefore, CH₃NH₂ (methylamine) is more basic than CF₃NH₂ (trifluoromethylamine) in aqueous solution.

### Final Answer
**CH₃NH₂ is more basic than CF₃NH₂ in aqueous solution.**

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