Ethyl Oxide (C₄H₁₀O), also known as diethyl ether, is a volatile and highly flammable ether used in organic synthesis, industrial solvents, and formerly as a surgical anesthetic.

Ethyl Oxide (C₄H₁₀O) – Properties, Applications, and Safety Information

Also Known As: Diethyl Ether, Ethyl Ether

Chemical Name: Ethyl Oxide
Chemical Formula: C₄H₁₀O
Chemical Class: Ethers, Volatile Organic Compounds

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Molecular Weight: 74.12 g/mol

• Boiling Point: 34.6 °C

• Melting Point: –116.3 °C

• Density: 0.7134 g/cm³ (at 20 °C)

• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; miscible with alcohols, ketones, and many organic solvents

• Reactivity: Tends to form explosive peroxides on exposure to air; reacts with oxidizing agents

• Stability: Extremely volatile and highly flammable; sensitive to heat, light, and static discharge

Applications

✅ Organic solvent – Used in extractions, purifications, and synthetic reactions
✅ Anesthesia (historical) – Previously used as a general anesthetic in surgery
✅ Fuel applications – Used in starting fluids for internal combustion engines
✅ Reagent medium – Preferred solvent for Grignard and lithium-based organometallic reactions
✅ Industrial processes – Involved in coating, adhesive, and resin formulations

Safety Information

⚠️ Extremely flammable – Vapors may ignite at room temperature
❗ Health risks – Inhalation can lead to CNS depression, headaches, and unconsciousness
❗ Contact hazard – May cause irritation or drying of skin and eyes
✅ Storage – Store in sealed, light-protected containers in a cool, explosion-proof environment
✅ PPE: Flame-retardant gloves, safety goggles, lab coat, anti-static footwear, use with fume hood