Diethyl ether

Diethyl Ether

Diethyl ether (pronounced: /daɪˈɛθəl ˈiːθər/), also known as ether and ethoxyethane, is a colorless, highly volatile flammable liquid. It is commonly used as a solvent in laboratories and as a starting fluid for some engines. It was formerly used as a general anesthetic, until non-flammable drugs were developed, such as halothane. It has a pungent smell.

Etymology

The term "ether" is derived from the Greek word "aither", which means "upper air or sky". Diethyl ether refers to the two ethyl groups, -CH2CH3, that are attached to an oxygen in the ether molecule.

Chemical Properties

Diethyl ether is a common laboratory aprotic solvent. It has limited solubility in water (6.05 g/100 ml at 25 °C) and dissolves 1.5 g/100 g water at 25 °C. Because of its application in the manufacturing of illicit substances, it is listed in the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances as a Table II precursor, and restrictions exist in countries because of its use in the production of methamphetamine.

Medical Use

Diethyl ether has a long history of use as a general anesthetic, although its use has declined with the introduction of safer and more effective agents. It is an effective inhalant anesthetic that provides rapid onset of anesthesia with minimal cardiac depression and is often used in developing countries because of its low cost.

Safety

Diethyl ether is highly flammable and explosive and must be handled with caution. The vapor can cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. Contact with the skin may result in burns and severe eye irritation.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Diethyl ether
Wikipedia's article - Diethyl ether

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