Question

The $C-O-C$ bond angle in diethyl ether is:

• A. ${109}^{o}28$
• B. ${110}^o$
• C. ${120}^o$
• D. ${180}^o$

Answer 1

The correct option is B ${110}^o$

Ethers have a tetrahedral geometry i.e. oxygen is $s{p}^3$ hybridized. The $C-O-C$ bond angle is ${110}^o$. Because of the greater electronegativity of $O$ than $C$, the $C-O$ bonds are slightly polar & are inclined to each other at an angle of ${110}^o$, resulting in a net dipole moment. This bond angle greater than that of tetrahedral bond angle of ${109}^o{28}^{\prime }$. This is due to the fact that internal repulsion by the hydrocarbon part is greater than the external repulsion of the lone pair of oxygen.