Definition

A clear, colorless liquid that is flammable and used in various industrial applications, including as a solvent and in fuel production.

Example

Toluene is commonly used in paint thinners and adhesives.

Conversation

Have you ever worked with toluene in your projects?

No, I haven't, but I've heard it's really useful as a solvent.

Yeah, I used it once for a model I was building.

That sounds interesting! What was it like working with toluene?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Toluene originates from the Spanish word 'tolueno', which refers to a resin obtained from the tree 'Liquidambar styraciflua'. The name is derived from 'Tolu', a region in Colombia where this resin was first collected. Thus, toluene refers to a chemical compound derived from this resin.

Memory Tip

Think of the Spanish word 'tolueno' and remember that toluene is a compound derived from a resin found in a specific region, Tolu, in Colombia.

Visually Confused Words