Question

Oxygen atom of ether is:
A. very reactive
B. replaceable
C. oxidizing
D. comparatively inert

Answer 1

Hint- To solve this question, we use the basic theory related to the organic compound which includes ether as well as some similar compounds of organic chemistry. Therefore, by analyzing the nature of ether compounds, we are easily able to give the answer of this question.

Complete step-by-step answer:
Many of a class of these organic compounds derived by an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups. Ethers are similar in structure to (-OH) alcohols, and both of them (ethers and alcohols) are similar in structure to water. In an (-OH) one hydrogen atom of a water molecule is replaced by an alkyl group, whereas in case of ether both hydrogen atoms are replaced by alkyl or aryl groups.
At 25${}^0C$ temperature, ethers are pleasant-smelling colorless in nature. While as compared to alcohols, ethers are generally less soluble and less dense in water, and also have lower boiling points. Apart from this They are relatively unreactive, and as a result they are useful as solvents for dyes, gums, fats, oils, waxes, perfumes, resins, and hydrocarbons. Gas forms of certain ethers are used as miticides, insecticides and fumigants for soil.
If we take some examples, Ethyl ether is a good solvent for extractions and for a wide variety of chemical reactions. And Ethyl ether is also used as a volatile starting fluid for gasoline engines and diesel engines in cold weather.
Oxygen atom of ether is comparatively inert.
C−O−C linkage is quite stable. Under ordinary conditions, ethers are not acted upon by dilute acids, bases and most of the oxidizing and reducing agents.

Note-In ether electronegativity difference is very high between the oxygen and carbon atoms, that’s why it has the molecule is slightly polar in nature. And also, they have low reactivity, which is mainly due to the two lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom do afford the ether molecule some reactivity; this molecule is subject to reacting with strong acids and acts as a Lewis base.