Nomenclature of Ethers

Nomenclature of Ethers

Ethers are derivatives of water in which both hydrogen atoms are replaced by alkyl or aryl groups. In symmetrical ethers both alkyl groups are the same whereas, in unsymmetrical ethers the two alkyl groups are different.

Common Names of Ethers:

In common naming ethers are named by naming the two alkyl substituents in alphabetical order followed by the word ether. Commonly the smallest ethers are always named commonly. Ethers in which both alkyl groups are the same are named by using a prefix di-.

IUPAC Names of Ethers:

In IUPAC naming system ethers are named as alkanes. The simplest R-O group is taken as substituent. The R-O group is named by replacing the -yl ending of an alkane with -oxy. For example.

Following are some examples of ether named with IUPAC system.

If other functional groups are present, then the R-O group is named as a substituent. For example.