Explain the following observations :
(i) In aqueous solution the `K_(b)` order is
`" "Et_(2)NH gt Et_(3)N gt EtNH_(2)`
(ii) Amines are more basic than comparable alcohols.

Explanation

(i) It is the combination of electron releasing nature of alkyl group, H-bonding and steric factors that determine the stability of ammonium cations formed in solution, therefore
`" "Et_(2)NH gt Et_(3)N gt EtNH_(2)" is order of "K_(b)`.
(ii) Amines are more basic than alcohols due to greater stabilisation by hyperconjugation of ammonium cation formed as compared to protonated alcohol. This can also be explained in terms of greater electronegativity of O than N. Oxygen being more electronegative has lower tendency to donate electrons than nitrogen. Thus, amines are more basic than alcohols.