What type of organic substances are described as derivatives of ammonia?

Amines are organic compounds that can be described as derivatives of ammonia (NH3). The structure of amines is created when one or more hydrogen atoms in ammonia are replaced by alkyl or aryl groups. This alteration transforms ammonia into various types of amines, leading to primary, secondary, or tertiary classifications based on how many hydrogen atoms have been replaced.

The connection between amines and ammonia is fundamental; it demonstrates how the basic form of ammonia can evolve into a diverse range of compounds with different properties and reactivities. Understanding this concept is crucial in organic chemistry, particularly in the study of nitrogen-containing compounds.

Other options present organic substances but do not correspond with the definition of being derivatives of ammonia. Amino acids contain an amine group but are classified differently because they also include a carboxylic acid group. Aldehydes and esters relate to variations of carbonyl groups and do not share the direct derivation from ammonia. Thus, amines remain the correct answer in this context.