Aliphatic and aromatic primary amines undergo the carbylamine reaction, producing foul-smelling isocyanides, when heated with chloroform and ethanolic potassium hydroxide. This reaction, known as the carbylamine reaction or isocyanide test, is utilized as a test for primary amines.

Dehydration of secondary and tertiary alcohols fails to yield ethers, as elimination competes over substitution. Consequently, alkenes are easily formed, and the reaction follows an SN₁ pathway, a concept elaborated upon in higher classes.

The formation of ethers during acidic dehydration involves a nucleophilic bimolecular (SN₂) reaction, where the alcohol molecule attacks a protonated alcohol. This method is suitable for preparing ethers with primary alkyl groups, requiring unhindered alkyl groups and low temperatures.

The formation of alkene or ether in alcohol dehydration depends on the reaction conditions. For instance, the dehydration of ethanol results in ethene at 443 K, while at 413 K, ethoxyethane is the main product, showcasing the influence of temperature.

Commercial alcohol is denatured by adding copper sulfate to give it color and pyridine, a foul-smelling liquid. This process ensures the alcohol is unsuitable for consumption.