Physical Properties
Physical properties can be measured or observed without changing the given matter. An example of this would be diethyl ether's coloration, which is colorless. Its odor is described as sweet, pungent, and ethereal, while its taste is described as burning and sweet. Diethyl ether has a molecular weight of 74.1216 g/mol and a mass of 74.073165 g/mol. The boiling point of diethyl ether is 34°C or 94°F, and its melting point is -116°C or -177°F. The liquid's flash point is at -45°C or -49°F, which affects its use as a starting fluid. Diethyl ether is soluble with ethanol, acetone, concn hydrochloric acid, naphtha, lower aliphatic alcohols, benzene, chloroform, petroleum ether, fat solvents, and many oils. Ether has a solubility in water of 8% at g/100ml or 6.9 at g/100ml 20°C, though its solubility in water is increased by hydrochloric acid. Diethyl ether has a density of 0.71 (water=1) and a viscosity of 0,2448 centipoise at 20°C. This substance's electric conductivity is 4x10-13 reciprocal ohms at 25°C and its heat of fusion is 23.45 cal/g.
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Chemical Properties
Chemical properties are determined by altering a substance's chemical identity. Knowledge of a substance's chemical properties can help in predicting if it will undergo a chemical reaction, in classifying compounds, in finding applications for the type of matter, or in purifying the substance. Diethyl ether's heat of combustion is -8.807 kcal/g, and its heat of vaporization is 89.80 cal/g at 30°C. Diethyl ether is described as burning with a smoky greenish flame. Its heat of formation is -907 cal/g. Flammability is another chemical property. Diethyl ether's volatility and significantly low ignition temperature make it highly flammable and one of the most treacherous fire hazards frequently faced in the lab. Hot surfaces like hot plates alone can ignite diethyl ether vapor. Diethyl ether can produce enough static electricity to create fire if shaken under completely dry conditions. When stored in contact with air, diethyl ether can produce explosive peroxides.
Toxicity is also a chemical property. Diethyl ether's acute toxicity is low. It can be absorbed into the human body through ingestion or inhalation of its vapor. Inhalation of diethyl ether can result in sedation, unconsciousness, and respiratory paralysis, though these results normally subside once exposure has ended. In addition, exposure can lead to cough, sore throat, labored breathing, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, or vomiting. Diethyl ether also affects the eyes, skin, and central nervous system. Upon contact, diethyl ether can cause irritation to the eyes and skin and upon repeated contact can remove skin oils, resulting in the drying and cracking of skin. Diethyl ether's high volatility causes it to not be easily absorbed through skin. Central nervous system effects like loss of appetite, exhaustion, sleepiness, and dizziness can result from long-term exposure to diethyl ether vapor. |