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The Charm of Ether: Why is Diethyl Ether Known as the "Sweet Oil" in History?
Diethyl ether, also known as "ether", is an organic compound with the chemical formula (CH3CH2)2O. This colorless, highly volatile, sweet-smelling liquid has historically been widely used as an anesthetic and as a solvent. Its special properties and legendary history have made diethyl ether known as the "sweet oil". However, how does the story behind this develop?
Production
Most diethyl ether is produced through the gas-phase hydration reaction of ethylene as a by-product of ethanol production. The process utilizes a solid-supported phosphoric acid catalyst and allows output to be adjusted based on demand. Under the action of certain catalysts, the gas-phase dehydration reaction of ethanol can achieve a yield of diethyl ether as high as 95%.
2 CH3CH2OH → (CH3CH2)2O + H2O
In addition, diethyl ether can also be prepared in laboratory and industrial scales using acid ether synthesis.
Purpose
The main use of diethyl ether is as a solvent, especially in the production of cellulosic plastics such as cellulose acetate. It is one of the commonly used solvents for laboratories, especially in the Grignard reaction and other reactions involving organometallic reagents, where the basic properties of diethyl ether are fully utilized. Its immiscibility with water and low density make it an ideal non-polar solvent in liquid-liquid extractions.
Fuel
In addition, the application of diethyl ether in fuel cannot be ignored. Due to its high cetane number (85–96), it is often used as a starting fluid in gasoline and diesel engines, especially in cold climates. This is a result of its high volatility and low flash point, allowing it to help engines start in sub-zero environments.
Chemical reaction
Diethyl ether is widely used in laboratories as a non-polar solvent. Moreover, it can also form triethoxymagnesium tetrafluoroborate in certain chemical reactions. This has led to its increasing status in the chemical community.
Metabolism
The metabolism of diethyl ether involves the pigment P450 enzyme, which not only affects its own metabolism, but also reduces the metabolism of ethanol. In this process, diethyl ether also had a certain impact on other drugs that require oxidative metabolism.
Security and Stability
Although diethyl ether has many advantages, its highly flammable nature requires caution in its use. Diethyl ether vapor is heavier than air and therefore can accumulate near the ground and may spread toward ignition sources. Therefore, open flames and other equipment that may cause ignition must be avoided during use.
The autoignition temperature of diethyl ether is 160 °C (320 °F). Its diffusion speed in air is 9.18 × 10−6 m2/s.
History
The history of diethyl ether dates back to the 8th century, and Jābir ibn Hayyān may have been one of the first to synthesize this compound. In 1540, Valerius Cordus refined it and called it a "sweet sulfuric oil," reflecting its distillation from a mixture of ethanol and sulfuric acid. This compound was given the name "ether" in the eighteenth century.
Use of anesthetics
Diethyl ether was used as an anesthetic in a public demonstration in 1846, an event that marked its medical importance. William T. G. Morton used diethyl ether containing aromatic oils, named "Letheon", to mask its smell. Although it had already been used for surgical anesthesia by Crawford Williamson Long in 1842, the technique quickly gained popularity thereafter.
Medical applications
During the 19th century, diethyl ether was also used in some pharmaceutical formulations. Over time, its use was gradually reduced, particularly because of the side effects and post-anesthesia discomfort it caused. By the 21st century, diethyl ether is no longer a commonly used anesthetic. New anesthetics based on hydrogen fluoride compounds, which pose no fire risk, have taken their place.
Recreational abuse
During the 19th century, diethyl ether was used as a recreational drug at some parties, demonstrating its widespread influence in society.
During 19th-century parties, people often inhaled diethyl ether, experiencing its anesthetic effects and becoming insensitive to minor injuries.
Although the history of diethyl ether is full of scientific progress and cultural exploration, in today's society, can we rethink its role in modern science and culture?
