Ortho-xylene is a colorless, flammable liquid that belongs to the group of aromatic hydrocarbons. It is one of the three isomers of xylene, distinguished by the arrangement of its two methyl groups on the benzene ring. Ortho-xylene is primarily used as a solvent in various industrial applications and as a precursor in the production of certain chemicals, including phthalic anhydride. This compound is produced through the catalytic reforming of petroleum and can also be found in small amounts in coal tar. Due to its chemical properties, ortho-xylene is utilized in the manufacture of plastics, resins, and dyes, making it an important substance in the chemical industry.