Williamson Ether Synthesis LAB QUESTION!?

Question

Why use acetonitrile instead of toulene in a Williamson Ether Synthesis? (Phenol, NaH, 1-bromopropane)?

Also, why use aqueous Na2CO3 instead of distilled water when extracting?

Answer 1

Williamson ether synthesis is an SN2 reaction, thus it is preferable to use the polar aprotic solvent like acetonitrile. Toluene is not very polar.