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Nitrous oxide is widely recognized for its use as an anesthetic gas in medical settings. It is utilized primarily for its analgesic and anxiolytic properties, making it effective for pain relief and sedation during procedures. The gas works by inducing a state of euphoria and reduction in pain perception, which is why it is often referred to as "laughing gas."

In contrast, the other substances mentioned do not have recognized applications as anesthetic gases. Volatile nitrites are typically used as vasoactive agents for medical conditions such as angina; rubber cement and glue are types of adhesives that contain solvents or chemicals which can have psychoactive effects if inhaled, but they do not serve any therapeutic purpose in anesthesia. Thus, nitrous oxide stands out as the correct answer due to its established role in medical anesthesia.