Question

Which of the following is not an example of unsymmetrical or mixed ether?

• A. $C_6{H}_5-O-C{H}_2-C_6{H}_5$
• B. $C_6{H}_5-O-C_6{H}_5$
• C. $C_6{H}_5-O-C{H}_3$
• D. $C_6{H}_5-O-C{H}_{2}Cl$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $C_6{H}_5-O-C_6{H}_5$

A symmetrical or simple ether is an ether having same alkyl or aryl groups on either side of -O-
An unsymmetrical or mixed ether is an ether having different alkyl or aryl groups on either side of -O-
Option (b) is the only molecule that has the same alkyl (isopropyl) on either side of -O- and hence it is symmetrical ether.
a, c and d have different alkyl or aryl groups on either side of -O- thus they are unsymmetrical or mixed ether. Hence correct option is b.