Are amide and ether groups considered polar or nonpolar?

[m25]

Are amide and ether groups considered polar or nonpolar?

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[azor ahai]

amides are polar due to the carbonyl group, and the fact that nitrogen is pretty electronegative. ethers can be polar or they can be symmetrically non-polar.

if you want to be sure about a certain molecule, just take note of the difference in electronegativity between the atoms in question.

 

[NextStepTutor_1]

As an aside, keep in mind the general reactivity of amides and ethers - this can help you to remember their general polarity, though it may not always be that easy. Ethers are generally used an non-reactive solvents while amides are slightly reactive (though low in reactivity compared to other carboxylic acid derivatives such as acyl halides, anhydrides, and esters.)