MixedHardQuestion 780013
Question
Why is the C−O−C bond angle in ethers (~111°) greater than the H−O−H angle in water (104.5°)?
- ALarger alkyl groups cause more steric repulsion, widening the angleCorrect
- BC−O bonds are stronger
- CO has fewer lone pairs in ethers
- DEthers have higher electronegativity
Correct answer
Larger alkyl groups cause more steric repulsion, widening the angle
Explanation
In water, the two lone pairs compress the H−O−H angle to 104.5°. In ethers, the larger alkyl groups cause steric repulsion between them, which widens the C−O−C angle to ~111° (close to tetrahedral 109.5°).