METHYL ETHER Meaning and
Definition
-
Methyl ether is a chemical compound with the molecular formula CH3-O-CH3. It is also known as dimethyl ether or methoxymethane.
Methyl ether is a colorless, volatile liquid with a distinct odor. It has a boiling point of -24.8 degrees Celsius and a melting point of -138.5 degrees Celsius. It is highly flammable and easily ignites in air, making it a hazardous substance.
In terms of its chemical properties, methyl ether is classified as an ether. Ethers are organic compounds that contain an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups. Methyl ether is one of the simplest ethers, consisting of two methyl groups bonded to the oxygen atom.
Methyl ether finds various applications in industry and laboratory settings. It is commonly used as a refrigerant, propellant, fuel, and solvent. Due to its low boiling point, it is used as an aerosol propellant in products such as hair sprays and deodorants. Methyl ether is also used as a starting material for the synthesis of other organic compounds.
While methyl ether has diverse industrial applications, it is important to handle it with caution due to its flammability and potential health hazards. Inhalation or prolonged exposure to methyl ether vapors can cause dizziness, headache, and respiratory irritation. It is advised to use appropriate safety measures when working with this compound.
-
Methyl oxide, aether methylicus, see under ether.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METHYL ETHER
- nethyl ether
- kethyl ether
- jethyl ether
- mwthyl ether
- msthyl ether
- mdthyl ether
- mrthyl ether
- m4thyl ether
- m3thyl ether
- merhyl ether
- mefhyl ether
- meghyl ether
- meyhyl ether
- me6hyl ether
- me5hyl ether
- metgyl ether
- metbyl ether
- metnyl ether
- metjyl ether
- metuyl ether
Etymology of METHYL ETHER
The etymology of the word "methyl ether" can be broken down as follows:
1. Methyl: The term "methyl" comes from the Greek word "methy" (μέθυ), meaning "wine". It was first used in the English language in the mid-19th century to describe a specific chemical compound.
2. Ether: The word "ether" has a more complex history. It originates from the ancient Greek word "aiθερ" (aither), which referred to the upper atmosphere or celestial region. In ancient Greek philosophy, it was considered the element that filled the voids of the universe above the terrestrial sphere.
In the 17th century, chemists adopted the term "ether" to describe a volatile liquid that evaporated easily.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
