What is the IUPAC name of Diethyl ether?
The IUPAC name of Diethyl ether is Ethoxyethane.
Diethyl ether, commonly known simply as "ether," is a clear, colorless, and highly volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet smell. It is an important organic compound widely used as a solvent and has historical significance as an anesthetic. Its chemical formula is (C₂H₅)₂O.
The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) provides a systematic way to name chemical compounds. For diethyl ether, the preferred IUPAC name is derived from its structure, which consists of an ethyl group (-CH₂CH₃) attached to an oxygen atom, which is then attached to another ethyl group. In the IUPAC nomenclature for ethers, the smaller alkyl group along with the oxygen atom is named as an alkoxy group. Here, one ethyl group and the oxygen form an "ethoxy" group, which is then attached to the other "ethane" chain, leading to the name Ethoxyethane.
Key Names and Identifiers for Diethyl Ether
Understanding the various names and identifiers helps in recognizing and referencing this compound in different contexts.
| Category | Name/Identifier |
|---|---|
| Preferred IUPAC Name | Ethoxyethane |
| Other Names | 3-Oxapentane, Dether, Diethyl ether, Diethyl oxide, Ether, Ethyl ether, Ethyl oxide, Solvent ether, Sulfuric ether, Sulphuric ether, Sweet oil of vitriol, Vitriolic ether |
| CAS Number | 60-29-7 |
Common Applications and Properties
- Solvent: Diethyl ether is an excellent non-polar solvent, frequently used in laboratories for extractions and chemical reactions.
- Anesthetic: Historically, it was one of the first successful general anesthetics, though its use in this capacity has largely been superseded by safer alternatives.
- Flammability: It is highly flammable and forms explosive peroxides upon exposure to air and light, requiring careful handling and storage.
For more information, you can refer to reputable chemical databases or resources such as the Wikipedia page for Diethyl ether.
