Williamson ether synthesis (Alkoxide + good LG on primary/ methyl substrate → ether (SN2 on carbon))

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Alkoxide + good LG on primary/ methyl substrate → ether (SN2 on carbon)

What each symbol means

SymbolWhat it stands for
R'XUsually 1° or methyl halide (or sulfonate)
RO⁻Alkoxide nucleophile

When to use this

Polar aprotic or suitable solvent; avoid β-branched halides for Williamson; competitive elimination if R'X is 2°/3°.