Read the passage carefully and answer the questions :
Replacement of a hydrogen atom in a hydrocarbon by an alkoxy or carboxyl group yields a class of compounds known as ethers. Ethers are classified as symmetrical or unsymmetrical on the basis of groups attached to the oxygen atoms. Diethyl ether, a symmetrical ether, has been widely used as an inhalation anesthetic. Ethers can be prepared by acid catalyzed intermolecular dehydration of alcohols and Williamson's synthesis. Acid catalyzed dehydration of alcohols is not generally preferred as it gives a mixture of elimination and substitution products.
In Williamson's synthesis, an alkyl halide is allowed to react with sodium alkoxide. Ethers containing substituted Alkyl groups may also be prepared by this method. The C-O bond in ether is weakly polar and is cleaved under drastic conditions with excess of hydrogen halides. In electrophilic substitution, the alkoxy group deactivates the aromatic ring and directs the incoming group to ortho and para positions.
Q) Which type of ether is anisole?
Correct Answer :
Phenyl Alkyl ether
Solution :
The correct option is Phenyl Alkyl ether.
Step-by-Step Explanation:
1. Understand the Structure of Anisole:
Anisole (also known as methoxybenzene) has the chemical formula . In this structure, an oxygen atom is bonded to two groups: a phenyl ring () and a methyl group ().
2. Classify the Groups Attached to Oxygen:
An ether has the general formula , where and are organic substituents:
• One substituent is a phenyl group (), which represents the "Phenyl" part.
• The other substituent is a methyl group (), which is an "Alkyl" group.
3. Determine the Ether Type:
Because the oxygen atom connects one phenyl group and one alkyl group, anisole belongs to the class of Phenyl Alkyl ethers (specifically, an alkyl aryl ether).
Access expert-curated educational resources and study materials—completely free.
Create, conduct, and manage professional online assessments with Mindyard. Perfect for teachers and institutes.
Copyright © 2026 Mindyard. All Rights Reserved.