Ether and water questions

[shrister]

DAT destroyer question 145 in chemistry section says that water and ether and miscible. If that's true, then why does water and ether form separate layers in aqueous extractions? From chads videos I wrote down water and ether are immiscible with ether being less dense and forms a layer above water. Can someone please clarify?

Also, I take my test this Thursday (5/22) so if anyone has last minute advice, comments, or anything it would be greatly appreciated.

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[Thanhn]

I think it depends on the ether. Some ethers are completely soluble (THF) whereas others are not. In separation, you're mainly using diethyl ether, which is only slightly polar (the two ethyl groups make it less polar). Therefore, it's not completely soluble so it'll form its own layer in a separatory funnel.

 

[Dotoday]

If Ether has less than 4 carbons it is soluble in water. If it has more , like dipropyl ether, then water and ether will form two layers. So, it depends on the length of the ethers.

 

[SmileDesignersDDS]

Water and ether ARE miscible especially lower weight ethers. Ethers dissolve in BOTH polar and nonpolar solvents.

 

[shrister]

Got it. Thanks!