Explore the structure and bonding of ethers with 3D molecular models. Ideal for teaching organic chemistry and biology students how ether linkages influence reactivity, solubility, & biological roles.
Ethers organic compounds with an oxygen atom bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups (R–O–R′). This oxygen bridge profoundly influences the compound’s polarity, hydrogen bonding capacity, and overall reactivity. In chemistry, ethers are studied for their relatively low reactivity compared to alcohols, their solubility patterns, and their role as solvents. In biology and medicine, ether linkages are found in naturally occurring compounds such as phospholipids and certain anesthetics. These molecular models allow students to visualize bond angles, electron density distribution, and steric effects, and make essential teaching tools for understanding this important functional group.
Indigo Instruments has held inventory of genuine Cochranes of Oxford (Orbit) atoms & bonds for 30+ years. These parts are compatible with every molecular model set we have sold since day 1. This quality may appear expensive but no parts support from other vendors costs even more.
Compound | Chemistry Focus | Biology / Medicine / Nursing Focus |
---|---|---|
Diethyl Ether | Classic laboratory solvent; low polarity, good for extraction of nonpolar compounds; historically important as an anesthetic | First widely used surgical anesthetic; replaced by safer agents but still relevant in medical history discussions |
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) | Polar aprotic solvent; miscible with water; used in Grignard reactions and polymer chemistry | Used in pharmaceutical synthesis; relevant in drug formulation research |
Dimethyl Ether | Simple gaseous ether; studied as a fuel alternative and reagent in organic synthesis | Potential biofuel; propellant in inhalers and aerosol sprays |
Anisole | Aromatic ether; studied in electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions | Occurs naturally in some plant essential oils; used in fragrance and flavor industry |
Ether Linkages in Biomolecules | Structural feature in glycosidic bonds and ether lipids; important in polymer and biopolymer chemistry | Found in disaccharides like sucrose and in plasmalogens (specialized membrane lipids) |
The molecules in the image are: di-isopropyl ether; dimethyl ether; methyl ethyl ether. Use the Indigo® Instruments 3D Molecular Model Builder (style: Orbit Basic) to view an ether & a parts list.
I've had consistently great service from this company. Our students seem to really appreciate the reasonable price. In the years that we've used this product, not one has been returned due to defects.
Considering how many of these we sell to schools every year, that is high praise indeed. Thanks letting us know.