Butanone, also known as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), is an organic compound with the formula CH₃C(O)CH₂CH₃. This colorless liquid ketone has a sharp, sweet odor reminiscent of butterscotch and acetone. It is produced industrially on a large scale, and also occurs in trace amounts in nature. It is soluble in water and is commonly used as an industrial solvent.