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Read the summary provided on pages 698-699 of Organic Chemistry, 8th ed. In this unit, we have discussed the structure and nomenclature of ethers. You have seen how these compounds can be prepared, either by a Williamson synthesis or by the alkoxymercuration-demercuration of an alkene, and you have seen that, once prepared, ethers are relatively
unreactive. The only reaction discussed in detail was a cleavage reaction, brought about by strong acid (HI or HBr) in the case of most ethers, but by dilute mineral acids or dilute bases in epoxides. The latter are cyclic ethers with a three-membered, oxygen-containing ring. Crown ethers are cyclic ethers that consist of a large ring containing several oxygen atoms. These compounds have a number of interesting applications. The unit concluded with a brief discussion of the chemistry of sulphur-containing organic compounds, including thiols, sulphides, sulphoxides, sulphones and trialkylsulphonium salts. Only a limited number of reactions were introduced in this unit, and they are summarized at the end of the chapter (Organic Chemistry, 8th ed., pages 699-700).Note that you need not study reactions 6 on page 700.

Assignment

Complete Self Test 1 before continuing to Unit 19.

Contributors

Dr. Dietmar Kennepohl FCIC (Professor of Chemistry, Athabasca University)