Cerosine, sometimes spelt as kerosene, is a hydrocarbon liquid that is commonly used as a fuel in aviation and industry. The spelling 'cerosine' is pronounced as /sərəʊsiːn/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word originates from the Greek word keros, meaning wax or pitch, and the suffix -ene, indicating a hydrocarbon. The spelling variation with a 'k' is also accepted and pronounced as /kerəsiːn/. Despite the variation, both spellings refer to the same liquid fuel.
Cerosine is a term that has various definitions depending on the field of study or application in which it is used. In chemistry, cerosine refers to a colorless liquid hydrocarbon compound that belongs to the alkane group. It usually contains between nine and 16 carbon atoms per molecule. Cerosine is typically derived from petroleum, and it is commonly used as a solvent in industrial processes, particularly for dissolving oils, fats, waxes, and resins.
In the field of aviation, cerosine is often used as another name for kerosene, which is a type of fuel specially designed for use in aircraft engines. Kerosene, or cerosine, is a flammable hydrocarbon liquid that is obtained by refining crude oil. It is primarily used as a fuel for jet engines due to its high energy content and stability at high temperatures. Kerosene has low freezing points, making it suitable for use in extreme weather conditions. It is colorless or pale yellow in appearance.
Furthermore, in certain contexts, cerosine may also refer to a brand or trademark name for products such as hosiery, cleaning agents, or even a type of lubricant. However, the more common and widely recognized definitions of cerosine are the ones related to its chemical composition or its use as aviation fuel.
A waxy substance found on the surface of the sugar-cane.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cerosine" does not have a widely known etymology. It is possible that it is a variation or derivative of the word "kerosine" or "kerosene", which refers to a flammable hydrocarbon liquid used as fuel. "Kerosene" originated from the Greek word "keros", which means "wax", as it was originally made from distilled coal-tar and used as a lamp oil. However, "cerosine" itself does not have a specifically documented origin or derivation.