Ether Compounds
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Category：Organic Chemicals Own Brand：MT /MOQ:100KG /From China/ B2B only.
Introduction
Definition & Structure
Ethers are organic compounds with the general formula R–O–R’, where:
- R, R’ = Alkyl (e.g., CH₃, C₂H₅) or Aryl (e.g., C₆H₅) groups
- Oxygen Bridge: Sp³-hybridized oxygen connecting two hydrocarbon moieties
Key Feature:
- No hydrogen bonding (unlike alcohols) → Lower boiling points than analogous alcohols.
Classification & Examples
| Type | Structure | Example | Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symmetrical Ethers | R = R’ | Diethyl ether (C₂H₅OC₂H₅) | Volatile, flammable |
| Unsymmetrical Ethers | R ≠ R’ | Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) | Octane booster in gasoline |
| Cyclic Ethers | O in a ring | Tetrahydrofuran (THF) | Polar aprotic solvent |
| Aryl Ethers | Aromatic R groups | Anisole (C₆H₅OCH₃) | Stable, fragrant |
Key Properties
| Property | Value/Range | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling Point | Lower than alcohols (e.g., Et₂O: 34.6°C vs. EtOH: 78.4°C) | Due to lack of H-bonding |
| Solubility | Slightly polar (miscible with organics) | Limited H₂O solubility (except cyclic ethers) |
| Reactivity | Inert to bases, cleaved by HI/HBr | Forms alcohols + alkyl halides |
Synthesis Methods
| Method | Reaction | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Williamson Ether Synthesis | R–X + R’O⁻ → R–O–R’ | CH₃I + NaOC₂H₅ → CH₃OC₂H₅ |
| Acid-Catalyzed Dehydration | 2 R–OH → R–O–R + H₂O | 2 C₂H₅OH → (C₂H₅)₂O (H₂SO₄) |
| Epoxide Formation | Alkene + Peracid → Cyclic ether | Ethylene + MCPBA → Ethylene oxide |
Industrial Applications
| Ether | Application | Industry |
|---|---|---|
| Diethyl Ether | Historical anesthetic, solvent | Pharmaceuticals |
| THF | Grignard reactions, polymer synthesis | Organic chemistry/Plastics |
| MTBE | Anti-knock additive (phased out) | Fuel industry |
| Dioxane | Stabilizer for chlorinated solvents | Paints/Adhesives |
Safety & Handling
| Risk | Precaution | Example Hazard |
|---|---|---|
| Flammability | Store in explosion-proof cabinets | Diethyl ether (Flash point: -45°C) |
| Peroxide Formation | Test old stocks with KI/starch | THF forms explosive peroxides |
| Toxicity | Use fume hoods for volatile ethers | Dioxane (carcinogenic) |
Disclaimer: The above content is for reference and communication only among industry insiders, and does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. According to relevant laws and regulations and the regulations of this website, units or individuals who purchase related items should obtain valid qualifications and qualification conditions.
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