Question

Write the condensed structures of all of the possible ethers with the general formula \(\mathrm{C}_{4} \mathrm{H}_{10} \mathrm{O}\). Following the pattern for the common names of ethers given in the chapter, what are the likely common names of these ethers?

Short answer

The possible ether structures with the formula \(\mathrm{C}_{4} \mathrm{H}_{10} \mathrm{O}\) are methyl propyl ether (\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{O}\mathrm{C}_3\mathrm{H}_7), diethyl ether (\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{O}\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5), and isopropyl methyl ether (\mathrm{(CH_3)_2CH}\mathrm{O}\mathrm{CH}_3).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Ethers

Ethers are compounds that contain an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. In the formula \(\mathrm{C}_{4} \mathrm{H}_{10} \mathrm{O}\), we are looking for ethers with four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms.

Drawing the Possible Structures

We need to consider the different ways four carbon atoms can be arranged with an oxygen atom to create ethers. Since we have \(\mathrm{C}_{4}\), the possibilities include having a straight chain or branched chain ether. For \(\mathrm{C}_{4} \mathrm{H}_{10} \mathrm{O}\), we can distribute the carbon atoms on either side of the oxygen atom as 1 and 3, or 2 and 2.

Creating the First Ether Structure

For the 1 and 3 distribution, place one carbon on one side of the oxygen and three on the other. This results in a methyl group (\(\mathrm{CH}_3\)) on one side and a propyl group (\(\mathrm{C}_3\mathrm{H}_7\)) on the other, forming the ether \(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{O}\mathrm{C}_3\mathrm{H}_7\).

Naming the First Ether

According to common naming conventions for ethers, we name the alkyl groups in alphabetical order followed by 'ether'. For \(\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{O}\mathrm{C}_3\mathrm{H}_7\), the common name is methyl propyl ether.

Creating the Second Ether Structure

Using the 2 and 2 distribution of carbons, we can have two ethyl groups (\(\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\)) on either side of the oxygen, forming the ether \(\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{O}\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\).

Naming the Second Ether

The common name for \(\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\mathrm{O}\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_5\) would be diethyl ether, since both alkyl groups are ethyl.

Considering Isomers of Propyl

For the propyl group side of the first ether, we also have to consider its isomer, isopropyl. This will create another possible structure for the ether.

Creating the Third Ether Structure

Placing the isopropyl group (\(\mathrm{(CH_3)_2CH}\)) on one side and a methyl group on the other side of the oxygen atom, we get the ether \(\mathrm{(CH_3)_2CH}\mathrm{O}\mathrm{CH}_3\).

Naming the Third Ether

The common name for \(\mathrm{(CH_3)_2CH}\mathrm{O}\mathrm{CH}_3\) is isopropyl methyl ether.

Key concepts

Molecular Structure of Ethers

The molecular structure of ethers is characterized by the presence of an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups; this can be visualized as R-O-R', where R and R' represent the carbon-containing groups.
The exercise asks for the structures of ethers with the formula \(\mathrm{C}_{4} \mathrm{H}_{10} \mathrm{O}\). In these molecules, the oxygen atom is pivotal, serving as a bridge between the carbon chains. Ethers can be symmetrical, with identical groups on either side, such as diethyl ether or asymmetrical like methyl propyl ether.

Possible Configurations:

• With four carbon atoms, you might see them arranged in a straight chain, with the oxygen atom interrupting the chain to create two distinct hydrocarbon fragments.
• In other configurations, the carbon chain can be branched, leading to a variety of structural isomers.
• Importantly, the exercise emphasized finding all possible isomers, illustrating the principle that the arrangement around the oxygen atom drastically changes the ether's properties.

By recognizing the flexible nature of ether structure, students can better understand the variety and behavior of these organic compounds in different chemical environments.

Organic Chemistry Nomenclature

Naming organic compounds, including ethers, follows specific rules that help chemists communicate complex structures in a simplified manner.
The IUPAC nomenclature system is standardized and widely accepted, however, in the case of ethers, common names often prevail. When using the common naming system for ethers, the alkyl or aryl groups attached to the oxygen are listed in alphabetical order, followed by the word 'ether'.

Naming Steps for Ethers:

• Identify the two groups attached to the oxygen.
• Alphabetize the names of the groups (ignoring prefixes like 'di', 'tri', etc.).
• Combine the names into one word, followed by 'ether'.

For instance, an ether with a methyl group (\(\mathrm{CH}_3\)) and a propyl group (\(\mathrm{C}_3\mathrm{H}_7\)) is named 'methyl propyl ether'. The systematic approach to nomenclature is vital, allowing students to decipher and construct the names of ethers methodically.

Functional Groups in Organic Compounds

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules.
Ethers contain an oxygen atom bonded to two carbon-containing groups, and this oxygen is the functional group responsible for the unique properties of ethers. The presence of this oxygen atom not only defines the class of compound but also affects aspects like polarity and boiling points.

Importance of Functional Groups:

• They dictate how a molecule interacts with other chemicals.
• Identifying functional groups allows chemists to predict the solubility, reactivity, and physical properties of the compound.
• They provide a point of modification, where chemical reactions can be targeted to make new compounds.

The inclusion of functional groups in organic chemistry education reinforces the understanding of molecular behavior, facilitating problem-solving when analyzing organic reactions and synthesis pathways.