What is the structure of an ether?

The structure of an ether is defined by the presence of an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. In this case, the selected structure, which is CH₃-CH₂-O-CH₂-CH₃, exemplifies a simple ether where an oxygen atom is sandwiched between two ethyl groups (CH₂-CH₃). This satisfies the general formula for ethers, which can be written as R-O-R', where R and R' can be any alkyl or aryl groups.

The ether functional group is characterized by the -O- covalent bond, and in this structure, both sides of the oxygen are attached to carbon chains, confirming it fits the definition of an ether. Additionally, it is important to note how this structure differs from other options.

For example, CH₃-CH₂-O-CH₂-OH contains an OH group, indicating it is an alcohol rather than an ether. CH₃-O-CH₃ is another ether, specifically dimethyl ether, but does not match the requirement of having two different alkyl groups as proposed in the question format. Lastly, CH₃-CH₂-CO-CH₃ features a carbonyl (C