Methyl acrylate is a colorless, volatile liquid organic compound with a sharp, pungent odor. It is the methyl ester of acrylic acid and is widely used in the chemical industry as a reactive monomer. Methyl acrylate is miscible with most organic solvents and slightly soluble in water. It plays a key role in the production of polymers and copolymers used in adhesives, paints, textiles, and coatings. Industrially, it is synthesized through the esterification of acrylic acid with methanol. Its high reactivity and ability to undergo polymerization make it valuable in the manufacture of specialty resins and performance materials.