* Ethers are compounds with the general formula R-O-R', where R and R' are alkyl or aryl groups. The defining feature of an ether is the oxygen atom bonded to two carbon atoms.
* Carbonyl groups consist of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom (C=O).
Therefore, a molecule cannot be both an ether and contain a carbonyl group. The presence of the carbonyl group would classify it as a different functional group, such as a ketone or an aldehyde.
Example:
* Diethyl ether (CH3CH2OCH2CH3) is a classic example of an ether, with no carbonyl group.
* Acetone (CH3COCH3) is a ketone, containing a carbonyl group (C=O) and not an ether.
