The word "heptane" is spelled as "ˈhɛptən". The first syllable "hept" comes from the Greek word hepta, meaning seven, which describes the seven carbon atoms present in the molecule. The second syllable "ane" indicates that it is an alkane, meaning it contains only single bonds. Heptane is a straight chain hydrocarbon and is commonly used as a fuel in gasoline engines. It has a chemical formula of C7H16 and a boiling point of 98 °C.
Heptane is a noun that refers to a colorless liquid hydrocarbon compound with the molecular formula C7H16. It is a volatile organic compound (VOC) belonging to the alkane family, which means it consists of only hydrogen and carbon atoms bonded together in a linear chain. Heptane is considered to be an intermediate hydrocarbon, falling between pentane and octane in terms of its carbon atom composition.
This chemical compound is insoluble in water but highly soluble in various organic solvents, making it a useful component in the production of various commercial and industrial products. Heptane is primarily derived from crude oil or natural gas and is often used as a standard reference in analysis and testing procedures. It is widely used as a solvent in laboratories for scientific research, as well as in industrial applications such as paint thinners, adhesives, and coatings.
Heptane is also utilized as a fuel component, particularly in gasoline blends, due to its high octane rating. Octane rating refers to a fuel's resistance to knocking or premature ignition in internal combustion engines. Heptane, with a rating of 0, represents the lowest end of the octane scale, while compounds like iso-octane have a rating of 100, signifying the highest resistance to knocking.
In summary, heptane is a colorless liquid hydrocarbon compound often used as a solvent and fuel component due to its chemical properties, solubility, and octane rating.
A paraffine having seven atoms of carbon, C7H16; a mobile, colorless liquid obtained from petroleum and from pine resin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "heptane" derives from the Greek roots "hepta" (meaning seven) and "ane" (indicating an alkane). Heptane refers to a seven-carbon saturated hydrocarbon compound, hence its name which reflects the number of carbon atoms in its chemical structure.