Ethyl is a chemical group derived from ethane, consisting of two carbon atoms and five hydrogen atoms, represented by the formula C2H5. It is commonly found in various organic compounds and plays a significant role in the production of fuels, solvents, and plastics. Ethyl groups are often attached to larger molecules, influencing their properties and reactivity. One of the most well-known compounds containing the ethyl group is ethyl alcohol, or ethanol, which is used in beverages and as a fuel additive. Ethyl compounds are also important in the field of organic chemistry, where they serve as building blocks for synthesizing more complex molecules.