1. Ether By Kurtis And Michael

2. Ether’s general structure looks like this: The R and R’ are alkyl groups. For example,

3. Naming Scheme Naming Ethers is almost the same way that we name the alkyl group. We still name the alkyl groups in alphabetical order and if there is more then one alkyl group use prefixes like di, tri, tetra, etc. After all the alkyl groups, the name is completed by adding ether to the end.

4. Examples CH3-O-CH2-CH3 This makes: Ethyl Methyl Ether CH3-O-CH3 This makes: Di Methyl Ether CH3-CH2-O-CH2-CH2-CH3 This makes: Ethyl Propyl Ether

5. Another Form of Naming There is an alternate way of naming ethers! You can add an -oxy- to the prefix of the smallest hydrocarbon group and make the larger hydrocarbon group an alkane.

6. Examples CH3-O-CH2-CH3 This makes: Methoxy Ethane CH3-O-CH3 This makes: Di Methoxy CH3-CH2-O-CH2-CH2-CH3 This makes: Ethoxy Propane

7. Reaction Properties Ethers can be formed through chemical reactions such as dehydrating alcohols. An example of this would be: C2H5-OH+HOC2H5 C2H5 – O – CH2 + H2O Diethyl Ether A dehydrating agent such as concentrated sulfuric acid is used in order for an ether to form in this reaction.

8. Everyday Uses • Ether is included in a sedative that is used when making people unconscious. • It works as a good starter fluid in an engine during cold weather. • Since ethers are un reactive they are often found in fats, oils, gums, dyes, and perfumes.