nheptan

n-Heptane is an organic chemical compound with the formula CH3(CH2)5CH3. It is an alkane, meaning it is a saturated hydrocarbon composed solely of single bonds between carbon atoms. n-Heptane is a colorless liquid at room temperature and pressure. It is one of the main components of the gasoline fraction of petroleum.

n-Heptane is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and benzene. It has a characteristic odor. The boiling point of n-heptane is 98.4 °C and its melting point is -90.6 °C. Its density is 0.684 g/cm³.

Industrially, n-heptane is primarily obtained from the fractional distillation of petroleum. It is also synthesized through various chemical processes.

n-Heptane is widely used as a non-polar solvent in many laboratory and industrial applications. It is a key component in the octane rating scale for gasoline, serving as the zero point of the scale. It is also used in the production of other chemicals and as a cleaning agent. Due to its flammability, n-heptane should be handled with care and stored in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.