Ethyl acetate (C₄H₈O₂) is a colorless, highly flammable organic ester with a characteristic sweet, fruity smell. It is the most common ester found in nature and synthetic products, serving as a primary solvent in lacquers, inks, adhesives, cosmetics (like nail polish remover), and decaffeination.
Key Chemical & Physical Properties
- Formula: CH₃COOCH₂CH₃
- Molecular Weight: 88.11 g/mol
- Boiling Point: 77.1°C
- Melting Point: -83.6°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; highly miscible with most organic solvents (e.g., alcohols, ketones, ethers)
