What is each ether’s systematic name?
1. CH₃OCH₂CH₃
2. CH₃CH₂OCH₂CH₃

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the functional group in the given molecules. Both molecules contain an ether functional group, which is characterized by an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups.
2. Step 2: For systematic naming of ethers, use the IUPAC nomenclature. The ether is named as an alkoxy group attached to the longest carbon chain. Identify the two alkyl groups attached to the oxygen atom.
3. Step 3: For the first molecule (CH₃OCH₂CH₃), the oxygen is bonded to a methyl group (CH₃) and an ethyl group (CH₂CH₃). The systematic name is derived by naming the smaller alkyl group as the alkoxy substituent (methoxy) and the larger alkyl group as the parent chain (ethane).
4. Step 4: For the second molecule (CH₃CH₂OCH₂CH₃), the oxygen is bonded to an ethyl group (CH₃CH₂) and another ethyl group (CH₂CH₃). Since both groups are identical, the systematic name is derived by naming the ether as diethyl ether.
5. Step 5: Ensure the names follow the IUPAC rules and double-check the structure to confirm the correct identification of the alkyl groups and their positions relative to the oxygen atom.

Key Concepts

Ethers

Ethers are a class of organic compounds characterized by an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. They have the general formula R-O-R', where R and R' represent hydrocarbon chains. Ethers are known for their relatively low reactivity and are commonly used as solvents in organic reactions due to their ability to dissolve a wide range of substances.

Nomenclature of Ethers

The systematic naming of ethers follows the IUPAC conventions, where the longest carbon chain is identified as the parent hydrocarbon, and the ether group is indicated by the suffix 'ether.' The names of the two alkyl groups attached to the oxygen are listed in alphabetical order, followed by the word 'ether.' For example, in the compound CH3OCH2CH3, the systematic name is ethyl methyl ether.

Structural Representation

Understanding the structural representation of organic compounds is crucial for identifying their functional groups and determining their names. In the case of ethers, the structure typically shows an oxygen atom bonded to two carbon chains. Recognizing the connectivity of atoms in a molecular structure helps in accurately deriving the systematic name and understanding the compound's properties.