They exhibit a variety of physiological effects on the body. Examples of alkaloids include nicotine, caffeine, quinine, atropine, morphine, and codeine. Groups attached to the nitrogen of the amide are denoted by a capital N that precedes the name of the attached group. Physical Properties of Amides. Low molecular weight amides are soluble in water due to the formation of hydrogen bonds.
Unsubstituted amides have higher melting and boiling points than comparable substituted amides.
Chemical Properties of Amides. Amides, unlike amines, are neutral. Amides undergo hydrolysis in acidic conditions to yield a carboxylic acid and an amine salt. Hydrolysis under basic conditions produces a carboxylate salt and an amine.