Diethyl ether

Diethyl ether, or simply ether, is an organic compound in the ether class with the formula (C
₂H
₅)
₂O, sometimes abbreviated as Et
₂O (see Pseudoelement symbols). It is a colorless, highly volatile flammable liquid. It is commonly used as a solvent in laboratories and as a starting fluid for some engines. It was formerly used as a general anesthetic, until non-flammable drugs were developed, such as halothane. It has been used as a recreational drug to cause intoxication. It is an isomer of butanol.