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When ether is reacted with O(2) . It u...

When ether is reacted with `O_(2)` . It undergoes explosion due to :

A

Peroxide

B

Acid

C

Ketone

D

TNT

Text Solution

AI Generated Solution

The correct Answer is:
To solve the question regarding why ether reacts with \( O_2 \) and undergoes an explosion, we can break down the reasoning step by step: ### Step 1: Understanding Ether Structure Ethers are organic compounds that contain an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups. For example, diethyl ether has the structure \( CH_3CH_2OCH_2CH_3 \). **Hint:** Recall the general structure of ethers and how they differ from other organic compounds. ### Step 2: Reaction with Oxygen When ethers are exposed to oxygen (\( O_2 \)), they can undergo a reaction that leads to the formation of peroxides. This reaction typically occurs under certain conditions, such as heat or light. **Hint:** Consider the conditions under which ethers might react with oxygen. ### Step 3: Formation of Peroxides The reaction of ethers with oxygen can lead to the formation of peroxides, which are compounds containing an oxygen-oxygen single bond (–O–O–). In the case of diethyl ether, the peroxide formed would be diethyl peroxide, represented as \( CH_3CH_2O-OCH_2CH_3 \). **Hint:** Think about the structure of peroxides and how they are formed from ethers. ### Step 4: Stability of Peroxides Peroxides are known to be unstable compounds. The O-O bond in peroxides is relatively weak, making them prone to decomposition. This instability is what makes the reaction with ethers particularly dangerous. **Hint:** Reflect on the properties of peroxides that contribute to their instability. ### Step 5: Explosion Due to Instability The instability of the peroxide formed from the ether reaction with oxygen can lead to an explosive decomposition. When the peroxide decomposes, it releases a large amount of energy, resulting in an explosion. **Hint:** Consider the energy changes involved in the decomposition of unstable compounds. ### Conclusion Thus, the explosion that occurs when ether reacts with \( O_2 \) is due to the formation of unstable peroxides, which can decompose explosively. **Final Answer:** The explosion occurs due to the formation of unstable peroxides. ---
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