Nitrite, Nitric Oxide, and Nitrosamine Formation

NITRITE, NITRIC OXIDE, AND NITROSAMINE FORMATION 

Rates of nitrosation are thus fastest for most secondary amines at about pH 2.5-3.4 (nitrous acid pK., = 3.4). Only the unprotonated amine substrate reacts with the nitrosating agent. 

Inhibition of nitrosation by pH control has counteracting effects at low pH the conjugated acid fitrm of the amine substrates are unreactive, while the pro-tonated nitrous acid is most reactive. At pH values above 6.0, nitrous acid is converted to inactive nitrite ion. 

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VIII. NITRITE, NITRIC OXIDE, AND NITROSAMINE FORMATION... 

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