Ethers have the structure R1-O-R2. Memory trick: ethers are eithers, R1 or R2 (a play on either/or).
Are only slightly polar due to the electronegative oxygen (unless there are other functional groups attached).
Naming. Ethers have the —oxy suffix. The smaller substituent is the “alkoxy” part. The parent chain is the longer chain (used for the base name). For other hydrocarbon groups, change —yl to —oxy. Then, number the position of the alkoxy.
