Step 1: Understand what ethers are. Ethers are a type of organic compound that have an oxygen atom connected to two alkyl or aryl groups.
Step 2: Learn about nucleophilic substitution reactions. This is a type of reaction where a nucleophile (a species that donates an electron pair) replaces a leaving group in a molecule.
Step 3: Recognize that ethers are generally stable but can react under certain conditions, specifically in the presence of strong acids.
Step 4: Identify that under strong acidic conditions, the ether can be protonated, making it more reactive.
Step 5: Conclude that the characteristic reaction of ethers is that they undergo nucleophilic substitution reactions when exposed to strong acids.
