How is methoxyethane prepared from:
(a) Methyl iodide (b) Diazomethane

Open in App

Solution

Methoxyethane, also known as ethyl methyl ether, is an ethyl group with a bonded methoxy. Methoxyethane is a colourless gaseous ether with a medicine-like odour. It is extremely flammable, and its inhalation may cause asphyxiation or dizziness. As a Lewis base, it can react with Lewis acids to form salts and reacts violently with oxidizing agents.
a) Preparation of Dimethyl ether (Methoxymethane) from methyl iodide :
When methyl iodide is heated with alcoholic sodium methoxide, it gives dimethyl ether.
$C H_{3} - O - N a + I - C H_{3} Δ - \to {C H}_{3} - O - {C H}_{3} + N a I$
b) Methoxyethane from diazomethane :
When ethyl alcohol is treated with diazomethane in presence of fluoroboric acid, methoxyethane is fromed.
$C_{2} H_{5} - O H + C H_{2} N_{2} Δ - -- \to H B F_{4} C_{2} H_{5} - O - {C H}_{3} + N_{2} ↑$

Suggest Corrections

Similar questions

How are methane and ethane prepared from methyl iodide and ethyl bromide ?

Name the compound prepared from :
(a) sodium propionate, (b) methyl iodide and
(c) ethyl bromide.
Write a balanced equation for the same.

Join BYJU'S Learning Program