Tetrahydrofuran is widely used as a versatile solvent in both laboratory and industrial settings. It is particularly effective in polymer science, where it dissolves polymers like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is used in the production of spandex fibers. Its ability to coordinate with cations makes it valuable in organometallic reactions, especially in Grignard reagent preparations and lithium-halogen exchanges. It is also employed in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals due to its excellent solvating power and relatively low boiling point, which facilitates easy removal after reactions. Additionally, tetrahydrofuran serves as a precursor in the manufacture of tetrahydrofuran-based polyethers, which are key components in polyurethane elastomers and coatings.