Question

Why are Ethers good solvents?

Answer 1

1. Ether is an organic compound with a chemical formula${\mathbf{\left(}{\mathbf{C}}_{\mathbf{2}}{\mathbf{H}}_{\mathbf{5}}\mathbf{\right)}}_{\mathbf{2}}\mathbf{O}$.
2. Ethers possess a similar chemical structure as that of alcohol and water.
3. Ethers are generally classified as symmetric ethers and asymmetric ethers.
4. They possess a wide range of physical and chemical properties, and so they are volatile in nature.
5. The general formula of ethers are$\mathrm{R}-\mathrm{O}-\mathrm{R},\mathrm{Ar}-\mathrm{O}-\mathrm{R},\mathrm{Ar}-\mathrm{O}-\mathrm{Ar}$, in which "R" is an alkyl group and "Ar" is an aryl group.
6. They are generally used in a variety of extraction processes and chemical reactions.
7. They are primarily used as good solvents because of their high volatility, slow chemical reactivity, and ability to accept the hydrogen bond.
8. An important application of ethers as solvents is it helps in starting the diesel engines even in cold weather conditions.
9. Use: Dimethyl ether is used as a refrigerant while Ethylene glycol is used in the formation of plastics.