Question

What is metamerism? 

Write the structure and IUPAC name of methyl-n-propyl ether. 

What is the action of hot HI on it?

Answer 1

a. Metamerism (positional isomerism): Ethers having same molecular formula but different alkyl groups attached on either side of the oxygen atom are called metamers of each other. This phenomenon is called metamerism (positional isomerism).

b. Methyl n-propyl ether: 

Structure:

CH₃ – O – CH₂ – CH₂ – CH₃

IUPAC Name: 1-Methoxypropane

c. Action of hot HI on methyl n-propyl ether:

CH₃ – O – CH₂ – CH₂ – CH₃ (Methyl n-propyl ether) + 2HI (Conc.) \(\overset{Hot/373 K}\longrightarrow\) CH₃I (Methyl iodide)+ CH₃ – CH₂ – CH₂ – I (Propyl iodide)+ H₂O