Smog chamber/FTIR techniques were used to study the atmospheric chemistry of the title compound which we refer to as R_fOC₂H ₅. Rate constants of k(CI + R_fOC₂H₅) = (2.70 ± 0.36) ± 10-¹², k(OH + R_fOC ₂H₅) = (5.93 ± 0.85) ± 10^-14, and k(CI + R_fOCHO) = (1.34 ± 0.20) × 10^-14 cm³ molecule^-1 s^-1 were measured in 700 Torr of N₂, or air, diluent at 294 ± 1 K. From the value of k(OH + R_fOC₂H₅) the atmospheric lifetime of R _fOC₂H₅ was estimated to be 1 year. Two competing loss mechanisms for R_fOCH(O^•)CH₃ radicals were identified in 700 Torr of N₂/O₂ diluent at 294 ± 1 K; decomposition via C-C bond scission giving a formate (R _fOCHO), or reaction with O₂ giving an acetate (R _fOC(O)-CH₃). In 700 Torr of N₂/O₂ diluent at 294 ± 1 K the rate constant ratio k₀₂/k _diss = (1.26 ± 0.74) × 10^-19 cm³ molecule^-1. The OH radical initiated atmospheric oxidation of R _f-OC₂H₅ gives R_fOCHO and R _fOC(O)CH₃ as major products. R_f-OC ₂H₅ has a global warming potential of approximately 55 for a 100 year horizon. The results are discussed with respect to the atmospheric chemistry and environmental impact of R_fOC₂H₅.