nheptanu

Nheptanu is a term that may refer to the straight‑chain alkane with seven carbon atoms, commonly known in English as n‑heptane. In non-English contexts, "nheptanu" or similar spellings can appear as transliterations or renderings of the same compound. In standard chemical nomenclature, the preferred name is n‑heptane, a member of the n‑alkane series.

Chemically, n‑heptane has the formula C7H16 and a linear, unbranched carbon backbone. It is a saturated hydrocarbon, meaning all carbon–carbon bonds are single bonds. The compound serves as a reference member of the seven‑carbon alkanes and is used to illustrate normal (unbranched) chain structures alongside its branched isomers.

Physically, n‑heptane is a colorless, relatively nonpolar liquid at room temperature. It has a boiling point near 98.4°C and a melting point around −90.7°C. It is sparingly soluble in water but mixes with many organic solvents. Its density is about 0.684 g/mL at 20°C. Like other alkanes, it is flammable and emits carbon dioxide and water upon complete combustion.

Production and applications typically involve petroleum refining, where n‑heptane is obtained from hydrocarbon fractions and used as a solvent in laboratories or as a reference standard in octane rating tests. It also appears in discussions of hydrocarbon chemistry as an example of a straight‑chain alkane and as a benchmark for comparing physical properties with branched isomers.

Safety considerations include flammability and the need to avoid inhalation or prolonged skin exposure. Proper storage in well‑ventilated areas away from heat sources is recommended. See also n‑alkanes, isomerism in alkanes, and octane rating.