CH3OC3H7

CH3OC3H7 is a shorthand notation for an ether in which a methyl group is bonded to an oxygen that is connected to a propyl group (C4H10O is the accompanying molecular formula). As written, it does not specify which propyl connectivity is present, so it represents a class of isomeric compounds known as methyl propyl ethers. The term is commonly associated with two main structural isomers: 1-methoxypropane (CH3-O-CH2-CH2-CH3) and 2-methoxypropane (CH3-O-CH(CH3)2), corresponding to methyl propyl ether with a straight-chain propyl group and methyl isopropyl ether, respectively. In systematic IUPAC naming, these are also referred to as methyl n-propyl ether and methyl isopropyl ether.

Physical properties of these ethers are typical for small, volatile, oxygen-containing solvents. They are colorless liquids with relatively low boiling points, and they are flammable. They exhibit limited solubility in water and are generally miscible with many organic solvents, making them useful as solvents in various organic processes.

Production methods include acid-catalyzed dehydration or condensation of methanol with propanol, which can yield mixtures of 1-methoxypropane and 2-methoxypropane. Another approach is the Williamson ether synthesis, for example by reacting methyl halide with a propoxide under basic conditions to form the desired methyl propyl ether.

Applications mainly involve use as solvents for coatings, inks, and organic synthesis, as well as intermediate materials in chemical manufacturing. Like other ethers, CH3OC3H7 compounds are typically handled with care due to flammability and potential peroxide formation upon prolonged exposure to air.