C22H46

C22H46 is the chemical formula for docosane, a saturated hydrocarbon. Docosane belongs to the alkane family, which consists of molecules composed solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms linked by single bonds. As a long-chain alkane, docosane is a waxy solid at room temperature. Its physical properties, such as its melting point and boiling point, are relatively high compared to shorter-chain alkanes due to the increased van der Waals forces between the larger molecules. Docosane is generally insoluble in water but soluble in nonpolar organic solvents. It is a component of paraffin waxes and can be found in petroleum products. Industrially, docosane can be produced through the fractional distillation of crude oil or through various synthetic organic chemistry methods. It finds applications in various industries, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as an emollient or thickening agent, and in the production of certain lubricants and candles. Its inert nature makes it a stable compound under normal conditions.