Used primarily as a gasoline additive to increase octane rating and reduce engine knocking. Historically served as a replacement for tetraethyl lead, but current usage has declined due to groundwater contamination risks and environmental concerns. Enhances combustion efficiency and lowers emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Serves as a solvent in laboratories due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds, non-polar nature, low boiling point, and relatively low reactivity. Commonly used in extraction processes and as a reaction medium in organic synthesis. Also employed in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals as an intermediate or processing aid.