How are ethers generally named in IUPAC nomenclature?

Ethers are named in IUPAC nomenclature by identifying the longest carbon chain as the parent compound and then naming the alkyl group attached to the oxygen as an "alkoxy" group. This approach emphasizes the role of the oxygen atom, which connects the two alkyl groups, making it clear that these groups are substituents on the main chain.

To construct the name, you first identify the longest carbon chain, which determines the base name of the compound. Then, the substituent on the oxygen is named as an "alkoxy" group, derived from the corresponding alcohol. For instance, if you have an ethyl group attached to an oxygen and the longest chain is butane, the compound would be named "butoxybutane". This method effectively communicates the structure of the ether and adheres to IUPAC conventions.

The other naming methods mentioned do not fit the formal rules of IUPAC nomenclature for ethers, as they do not correctly indicate how to identify and label the functional groups within the compound.