Diethylzinc is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H10Zn. It is widely used in organic chemistry as a reagent, catalyst, and precursor to other zinc compounds. Some common synonyms for diethylzinc include DEZ, zinc diethyl, and diethyl zincate. Additionally, it may be referred to by its CAS number, 557-20-0, or by its IUPAC name, ethylzinc. This colorless liquid has a sharp and offensive odor and is highly flammable. It is commonly used in pharmaceuticals, electronics, and materials science. Diethylzinc must be handled with great care due to its pyrophoric nature, meaning it can ignite spontaneously in the presence of air.