What are the uses of toluene? What is toluene and where can I get it? What commercial applications are toluene used for? Is it dangerous

C₇H₈ 

Toluene, also known as toluol, is an aromatic hydrocarbon. It is a colorless, water-insoluble liquid with the smell associated with paint thinners. Toluene is predominantly used as an industrial feedstock and a solvent. It is a volatile organic compound, which means that it readily transitions into a gas. This transition occurs at room temperature. Toluene has a sweet odor and is very flammable. It occurs naturally in crude oil or in the tolu tree. It is also a byproduct in the development of styrene. 
As the solvent in some types of paint thinner, permanent markers, contact cement, and certain types of glue, toluene is sometimes used as a recreational inhalant.
Surprisingly, toluene plays a big role in our ability to enjoy the popular beverage Coca-Cola. Toluene is involved in removing the cocaine from the coca leaves, which are used to develop the famous Coca-Cola syrup.

Toluene - Uses in Pottery

The main usage in pottery is as a thinner for gold, platinum, and silver. It is used for cleaning brushes and other tools, used for the application of gold, silver, or platinum. 

Formula: C₇H₈
Molecular Weight: 92.141 g/mol
Form: colorless liquid
CAS Number: 108-88-3
Density: 0.87 g/cm³
Synonyms: toluene, methylbenzene, toluol, 108-88-3, Benzene, methyl-Phenylmethane, methylbenzol, methacide, Toluen, antisal 1a, tolu-sol, monomethyl benzene, Methane, phenyl-Tolueen, Toluolo, phenyl methane, methyl-Benzene