Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane (DCM), is an organic compound that's often used as a solvent in various industrial applications like paint stripping, degreasing and as an extraction solvent in some chemical processes. It's a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid that can quickly evaporate into gas at room temperature. Methylene chloride is known for its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, but it should be handled with care because of links to serious health risks including respiratory and skin irritation, as well as adverse effects when not used in well-ventilated areas.