Ethers

Question 1

What is the basic structure of an ether?

Answer 1

Bent geometry
Can be symmetrical or asymmetrical

sp³ hybridised O

Question 2

What is the functional group of an ether?

Answer 2

C-O-C

Question 3

What are the properties, and general trends of these properties, for ethers?

Answer 3

They are polar, and have a molecular dipole

They experience dipole-dipole forces

Generally low boiling points
Lower polarity than alcohols

Question 4

Ether nomenclature

Answer 4

The complex alkyl group is the root name, with the other as a substituent

Join 2 alkyl groups with -oxy- (e.g. methoxypropane)

Question 5

How are ethers prepared?

Answer 5

Nucleophilic substitution of alkyl halides with alcohols

or

Nucleophilic substitution of alkyl halides with alkoxide ions (Williamson)

Question 6

Which reactions do ether undergo?

Answer 6

Cleavage reactions in the presence of strong acids
Excess acid => 2 Alkyl halides formed
If not excess => Alcohol + alkyl halide formed
They do not react with bases