o-xylene is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet odor, commonly used as a solvent in various industrial applications. It is one of the isomers of xylene, which means it has the same chemical formula but a different arrangement of atoms. Its chemical formula is C8H10, and it is primarily derived from petroleum. In addition to its use as a solvent, o-xylene is also utilized in the production of phthalic anhydride, which is important for making plastics and resins. It can be found in products like paints, varnishes, and adhesives, making it a versatile compound in the chemical industry.