Question

Which one of the following amines cannot be prepared by Gabriel's synthesis?

• A. Butylamine
• B. Isobutylamine
• C. $2$-Phenylethylamine
• D. $N$-Methylbenzylamine

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$N$-Methylbenzylamine

Answer 2

Gabriel synthesis is used for the preparation of primary amines. Butylamine, isobutylamine and $2$-phenyl ethylamine are primary amine hence these can be prepared by Gabriel's synthesis but $N$-methyl benzylamine is a secondary amine and therefore, it cannot be prepared by Gabriel's synthesis.