Question

why are lower ethers soluble in water

Answer 1

Ethers containing up to 3 carbon atoms are soluble in water, due to their hydrogen bond formation with water molecules. The solubility decreases with increase in the number of carbon atoms. The relative increase in the hydrocarbon portion of the molecule decreases the tendency of H-bond formation.

Answer 2

Lower ethers are soluble in water due to the formation of H- bonding.

• Ether molecules have the molecular formula R-O-R', where R and R' are the alkyl groups.
• Ether molecules containing up to 3 carbon atoms can form H- bond with water molecules and become soluble in water.
• The ether molecules with higher molecular mass or containing more than 3 carbon atoms can not form an H bond easily with water and remain insoluble in water.