Oxirane, commonly known as ethylene oxide, is a colorless gas with a sweet odor. It is a cyclic ether, meaning it has a ring structure that consists of three carbon atoms and one oxygen atom. Oxirane is primarily used in the production of antifreeze, detergents, and as a sterilizing agent in the medical field. In addition to its industrial applications, oxirane is also a key intermediate in the synthesis of various chemicals, including glycol ethers and polyethylene glycols. Due to its reactivity, it can undergo various chemical reactions, making it valuable in organic chemistry and the manufacturing of plastics.