For each of the following, give an example of a member compound containing 5 carbons total:
(d) Ether

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that an ether is a compound with an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups.
2. To create an ether with 5 carbons, decide how to distribute the carbon atoms between the two groups connected by the oxygen.
3. Consider a simple example where one group has 2 carbons and the other has 3 carbons.
4. Name the ether by identifying the two alkyl groups and adding the suffix 'ether'.
5. For example, if you choose ethyl (2 carbons) and propyl (3 carbons), the compound would be named ethyl propyl ether.

Key Concepts

Ether

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. An example of a five-carbon ether is diethyl ether, which consists of two ethyl groups (C2H5) bonded to an oxygen atom.

Structural Isomerism

Structural isomerism occurs when compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements of atoms. In the case of ethers, different isomers can be formed by varying the carbon chains attached to the oxygen. Understanding structural isomerism is crucial for identifying and naming different ether compounds that contain the same number of carbon atoms but differ in their connectivity.

Functional Groups

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. In ethers, the functional group is the ether group (-O-), which influences their reactivity and properties. Recognizing functional groups is essential for predicting the behavior of organic compounds, including ethers, in chemical reactions.