Chapter 3, Problem 3.113EP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The common names for all the constitutional isomers of ethyl propyl ether have to be given.

Concept Introduction:

Organic compounds are represented shortly by the molecular formula and structural formula.  Each and every compound has its own molecular formula.  Compounds can have same molecular formula but not same structural formula.

Isomers are the compounds that have same molecular formula but different structural formula.  The main difference lies in the way the atoms are arranged in the structure.  Isomers have different chemical and physical properties even when they have same molecular formula.  This is known as Isomerism.

If there is difference only in the connectivity of the atoms in the molecule, then it is known as constitutional isomerism.  These isomers are known as constitutional isomers.  They will have same molecular formula and same functional group, but they differ in the connectivity between the atoms in the molecule.

Rules for assigning common names to ether:

For obtaining common name for ether, two rules are applicable, one for symmetrical ethers and one for unsymmetrical ethers.

• ✓  For unsymmetrical ethers, the two hydrocarbon groups that is attached to the oxygen atom is arranged in an alphabetical order and the word ether is added.  The words are separated by a space.  These names have three words with space between them.
• ✓  For symmetrical ethers, prefix di- is used.  Then the word ether is added with a space between the two words.  These names have two words with space between them.