Primary, secondary and tertiary amines cannot be distinguished by the action of

Options

A. `CS_(2)//HgCl_(2)`
B. `NaNO_(2)//HCl`
C. `CHCl_(3)//KOH`
D. `X_(2)//NaOH`

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the distinguishing of primary, secondary, and tertiary amines, we will analyze the reactions that can differentiate them and identify which one cannot.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Amines**:
- Amines are classified into three categories: primary (RNH2), secondary (R2NH), and tertiary (R3N) based on the number of alkyl groups attached to the nitrogen atom.

2. **Reactions to Distinguish Amines**:
- **Hofmann Mustard Oil Reaction**:
- Primary amines react with carbon disulfide (CS2) and mercuric chloride (HgCl2) to form isothiocyanates. Secondary and tertiary amines do not undergo this reaction in the same way.
- **Diazotization Reaction**:
- Primary amines react with nitrous acid (generated from NaNO2 and HCl) to form nitrogen gas (N2) and an alcohol. Secondary amines give a different product, while tertiary amines do not react.
- **Carbylamine Reaction**:
- Primary amines react with chloroform (CHCl3) in the presence of a strong base (KOH) to produce isocyanides (carbylamines), while secondary and tertiary amines do not give this reaction.

3. **Identifying the Non-Distinguishing Reaction**:
- The question asks for a reaction that cannot distinguish between primary, secondary, and tertiary amines.
- The reactions mentioned (Hofmann mustard oil reaction, diazotization, and carbylamine reaction) can distinguish between these amines.
- However, reactions involving halogens (X2) and strong bases like NaOH do not provide a clear distinction among the three types of amines.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer is that primary, secondary, and tertiary amines cannot be distinguished by the action of halogens (X2) and NaOH.

### Final Answer:
Primary, secondary, and tertiary amines cannot be distinguished by the action of X2 and NaOH.