In the preparation of benzyl 2-phenethyl ether for hydrogenation studies' an interesting byproduct was encountered and its identity can now be reported. The ether was prepared by the reaction of benzyl chloride with sodium 2-phenylethoxide suspended in toluene, and the by-product remained in the distillation flask after removing the ether in vacuo. When an attempt was made to wash out the residue with petroleum ether it crystallized in large ...
