Phenyl Ethers Phenoxide ions are easily produced for use in the Williamson synthesis. Phenyl halides or tosylates cannot be used in this synthesis method. O-H O Na NaOH HOH => Chapter 14 14Chapter 14 14 Phenyl Ethers • Phenoxide ions are easily produced for use in the Williamson synthesis. • Phenyl halides or tosylates cannot be used in this synthesis method. O H + NaOH O _ Na + + HOH =>