Williamson Ether Synthesis

Abstract This reaction is a nucleophilic substitution of an alkali alkoxide on an alkylating reagent to form an ether and an inorganic salt and is generally referred to as the Williamson ether synthesis. This reaction consists of two steps. Using different alcohols and alkylating reagents, both symmetrical and asymmetrical ethers can be prepared by this reaction. The reaction rate of the Williamson ether synthesis depends on various factors, such as temperature, leaving group on the alkylating reagent, the nucleophilicity of alkoxide, and the counter cation of alkoxide. Furthermore, this reaction is favored by a good leaving group on the alkylating reagent and high temperature. The Williamson ether synthesis is still the primary reaction for the preparation of ether derivatives.