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Ch. 3 - An Introduction to Organic Compounds:Nomenclature, Physical Properties, and Structure
Bruice - Organic Chemistry 8th Edition
Bruice8th EditionOrganic ChemistryISBN: 9780135213711Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 4, Problem 22c

What are their common names?

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Step 1: Identify the functional group in the given structure. The molecule contains an ether functional group, characterized by an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl groups.
Step 2: Determine the alkyl groups attached to the oxygen atom. On one side, there is an isopropyl group (CH(CH3)2), and on the other side, there is an ethyl group (CH2CH3).
Step 3: Recall the common naming convention for ethers. Ethers are named by listing the alkyl groups attached to the oxygen atom in alphabetical order, followed by the word 'ether'.
Step 4: Arrange the alkyl groups alphabetically. 'Ethyl' comes before 'isopropyl' in alphabetical order.
Step 5: Combine the names of the alkyl groups with 'ether' to form the common name. The common name of the compound is 'ethyl isopropyl ether'.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

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 commonly used as solvents and in the synthesis of other organic compounds due to their relatively low reactivity.
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Nomenclature of Ethers

The common naming of ethers typically involves identifying the two alkyl groups attached to the oxygen atom and listing them in alphabetical order, followed by the word 'ether.' For example, in the structure provided, the ether is formed from ethyl and isopropyl groups, leading to the common name 'isopropyl ethyl ether.'
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Structural Representation

In organic chemistry, structural formulas visually represent the arrangement of atoms within a molecule. The image depicts an ether, showing the connectivity of carbon and oxygen atoms. Understanding these structures is crucial for identifying functional groups and predicting the chemical behavior of compounds.
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