Ethers Introduction
In ethers, an oxygen atom is connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. The general formula for ether is R−O−R'.
where,
- R and R' may be the same.
Dimethyl ether
Ethers, in which the group R and R' are the same are called simple or symmetrical ethers.
- R and R' may be different.
Ethyl methyl ether
Ethers, in which the groups R and R' are not the same are called mixed or unsymmetrical ethers
Ethers are further classified as :
- Aliphatic ethers
- Aromatic ethers
Aliphatic ethers
In aliphatic ethers, R and R' are both alkyl groups.
Ethyl propyl ether
Aromatic ethers
In aromatic ethers, either one or both the groups are aromatic rings.
Methyl phenyl ether
Diphenyl ether
Nomenclature of Ether
Naming of ethers is taught in Nomenclature of Ether. If you want to learn how organic compounds are named from scratch then you should begin from Nomenclature Introduction.