M

Methyl tert-butyl ether

IUPAC: 2-methoxy-2-methylpropane

C5H12O Solvents CAS 1634-04-4
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC5H12O
CAS Number1634-04-4
Molecular Weight88.15
Melting Point-164.2 °F (USCG, 1999)
Boiling Point131.4 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)
Density0.7405 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float
SolubilitySolubility of water in methyl t-butyl ether: 1.5 g/100 g; unstable in acid solution
AppearanceMethyl tert-butyl ether appears as a colorless liquid with a distinctive anesthetic-like odor. Vapors are heavier than air and narcotic (cause drowsiness when inhaled). This liquid has a flash poin...
Also Known As2-methoxy-2-methylpropane; tert-Butyl methyl ether; 1634-04-4; 2-Methoxy-2-methylpropane; MTBE; Methyl t-butyl ether; Propane, 2-methoxy-2-methyl-; T-BUTYL METHYL ETHER; 2-Methyl-2-methoxypropane; Methyl tertiary-butyl ether
CategorySolvents

What is Methyl tert-butyl ether?

Methyl tert-butyl ether is an ether having methyl and tert-butyl as the two alkyl components. It has a role as a metabolite, a non-polar solvent and a fuel additive.

Formula & Notation

C5H12O

IUPAC Name: 2-methoxy-2-methylpropane

Other Names / Synonyms: 2-methoxy-2-methylpropane; tert-Butyl methyl ether; 1634-04-4; 2-Methoxy-2-methylpropane; MTBE; Methyl t-butyl ether; Propane, 2-methoxy-2-methyl-; T-BUTYL METHYL ETHER; 2-Methyl-2-methoxypropane; Methyl tertiary-butyl ether

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Methyl tert-butyl ether appears as a colorless liquid with a distinctive anesthetic-like odor. Vapors are heavier than air and narcotic (cause drowsiness when inhaled). This liquid has a flash poin.... Molecular formula: C5H12O. Molecular weight: 88.15 g/mol. Boiling point: 131.4 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999). Melting point: -164.2 °F (USCG, 1999). Density: 0.7405 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float. Solubility: Solubility of water in methyl t-butyl ether: 1.5 g/100 g; unstable in acid solution. Vapor pressure: 250.0 [mmHg]. LogP: 0.9.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point-164.2 °F (USCG, 1999)
Boiling Point131.4 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)
Density0.7405 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float
Molecular Weight88.15
SolubilitySolubility of water in methyl t-butyl ether: 1.5 g/100 g; unstable in acid solution
AppearanceMethyl tert-butyl ether appears as a colorless liquid with a distinctive anesthetic-like odor. Vapors are heavier than air and narcotic (cause drowsiness when inhaled). This liquid has a flash poin...

Uses & Applications

Used as a reaction solvent in organic synthesis, extraction solvent, cleaning agent, or in pharmaceutical manufacture.

Safety Information

Flammable solvent. Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame. Use in well-ventilated area or fume hood. Consult SDS before use.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Methyl tert-butyl ether
Formula C5H12O
CAS Number 1634-04-4
Molecular Weight 88.15
Category Solvents
Synonyms 2-methoxy-2-methylpropane; tert-Butyl methyl ether; 1634-04-4; 2-Methoxy-2-methylpropane; MTBE; Methyl t-butyl ether; Propane, 2-methoxy-2-methyl-; T-BUTYL METHYL ETHER; 2-Methyl-2-methoxypropane; Methyl tertiary-butyl ether

Frequently Asked Questions

Methyl tert-butyl ether is an ether having methyl and tert-butyl as the two alkyl components. It has a role as a metabolite, a non-polar solvent and a fuel additive.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.