Tetracosane

Tetracosane, also known as n-tetracosane, is a straight-chain alkane with the chemical formula C24H50. It is the 24-carbon member of the n-alkanes in the paraffin series. Its structure is CH3-(CH2)22-CH3, a linear hydrocarbon with no functional groups.

Tetracosane occurs in natural waxes and can be found in some crude oil fractions. Commercially, it is obtained from refining petroleum or by purification of high-boiling paraffin fractions. It is a nonpolar, hydrophobic compound that is insoluble in water and soluble in nonpolar organic solvents such as hexane and toluene. It is typically a solid at room temperature with a relatively high melting point compared with lighter alkanes and a high boiling point, often handled as a waxy solid or high-boiling liquid in mixtures.

Chemically, tetracosane is inert under standard conditions due to its saturated carbon framework; it mainly undergoes combustion to carbon dioxide and water and may form oxidized products under strong conditions. It is flammable and should be kept away from heat sources and flames.

Applications of tetracosane include its use as a reference compound in gas chromatography for calibrating retention indices of long-chain n-alkanes and as a high-boiling component in lubricants, wax blends, and physicochemical studies of paraffins.

Safety considerations: tetracosane is a flammable solid with low acute toxicity. It can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact and poses inhalation risks at elevated temperatures.