Identify the type of the following reaction?

Step-by-step solution

The given reaction involves the treatment of a sodium alkoxide (sodium 3-ethylpentan-3-olate) with an alkyl halide (methyl bromide) to form an ether (3-ethyl-3-methoxypentane). This is a classic example of the Williamson ether synthesis. The general reaction is given by: R-O⁻Na⁺ + R'-X R-O-R' + NaX The reaction proceeds via an S_N2 mechanism where the alkoxide ion acts as a nucleophile and attacks the unhindered methyl carbon, displacing the bromide ion. Answer: Williamson synthesis