methyl ether

chemical compound

Also known as: dimethyl ether

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

Methyl ether, also known as dimethyl ether, is a flammable gas with the chemical formula (CH₃)₂O. It is typically produced by heating methanol with sulfuric acid.1

Ethers, as a class of organic compounds, feature an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups. They share structural similarities with alcohols and water. At room temperature, ethers are typically colorless liquids with a pleasant odor. They are generally less dense, less soluble in water, and have lower boiling points than alcohols. Their relative unreactivity makes them useful as solvents for various substances like fats, oils, waxes, and perfumes.2

Some ethers have found applications in medicine as anesthetics, though many have been replaced by less flammable alternatives. Dimethyl ether specifically is used as a spray propellant and refrigerant.2

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ether
Dimethyl ether is used as a spray propellant and refrigerant. Methyl t-butyl ether (MTBE) is a gasoline additive that boosts the octane number and reduces the amount of nitrogen-oxide pollutants in the exhaust. The ethers of ethylene glycol are used as solvents and plasticizers.
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Dimethyl ether is used as a spray propellant and refrigerant. Methyl t-butyl ether (MTBE) is a gasoline additive that boosts the octane number and reduces the amount of nitrogen-oxide pollutants in the exhaust. The ethers of ethylene glycol are used as solvents and plasticizers.
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carbohydrate
Formation of methyl ethers
Treatment of a carbohydrate with methyl iodide or similar agents under appropriate conditions results in the formation of compounds in which the hydroxyl groups are converted to methyl groups (―CH₃). Called methyl ethers, these compounds are employed in structural studies of oligosaccharides and…
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Treatment of a carbohydrate with methyl iodide or similar agents under appropriate conditions results in the formation of compounds in which the hydroxyl groups are converted to methyl groups (―CH₃). Called methyl ethers, these compounds are employed in structural studies of oligosaccharides and…
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molecule
Molecular bonding
methyl ether (CH₃OCH₃) both contain one, two, and six atoms of oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen, respectively, but these atoms are bonded in different ways.
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methyl ether (CH₃OCH₃) both contain one, two, and six atoms of oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen, respectively, but these atoms are bonded in different ways.
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