What is "trichloroethane"

n. 1 (context organic compound English) Either of two isomeric halogenated hydrocarbons, CH₃-CCl₃ or CH₂Cl-CHCl₂, that are used in several industrial applications, especially as solvents 2 (context organic chemistry English) Any of many derivatives of these compounds

n. a heavy colorless highly toxic liquid used as a solvent to clean electronic components and for dry cleaning and as a fumigant; causes cancer and liver and lung damage [syn: trichloroethylene, TCE]

Trichloroethane can refer to either of two isomeric chemical compounds:

• 1,1,1-Trichloroethane (methyl chloroform)
• 1,1,2-Trichloroethane (vinyl trichloride)