Comparatively Speaking:
Ether vs. Ester

Posted: February 10, 2006

page 2 of 18

How can we intelligently use good science and debunk misinformation offered as “science”?  The keys are going back to basics and communication.  At a recent conference one of my associates queried, “How many of the people present actually know the difference between an ether and an ester? “ This question and my inability to answer it led ultimately to this column.

This column will present important, fundamental concepts of chemistry.  The goal is not only to help chemists effectively use information, but to be more critical in accepting it and to question it. The format will be two questions per column, on a variety of topics, including basic science, formulation science, regulatory and legal issues. The hope is to get readers to think about, discuss the answer and get back to technical basics. Comments from readers are always welcome.

Questions:

1. What is the difference between an ether and ester?
2. What is the difference between silicon and silicone?