Ethyl ether, also known as diethyl ether, is a colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet odor. It is primarily used as a solvent in laboratories and in the production of various chemicals. Ethyl ether is flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air, making it important to handle with care. Historically, ethyl ether was used as an anesthetic in medicine, particularly during the 19th century. Its ability to induce unconsciousness made it a popular choice for surgeries before the development of safer alternatives. Today, its medical use has largely been replaced by other anesthetics, but it remains significant in industrial applications.