N heptane
n-Heptane (C7H16) is a straight-chain alkane with seven carbon atoms. It is a colorless, volatile liquid at room temperature, highly flammable, and insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and ether.
n-Heptane is commonly used as a standard reference fuel in determining the octane rating of gasoline—by definition, it has an octane rating of 0, in contrast to iso-octane (2,2,4-trimethylpentane), which is assigned a rating of 100.
It serves as an important industrial solvent in laboratories and manufacturing processes, particularly in extraction and chromatography. Due to its low reactivity and well-defined combustion properties, it is also used in combustion research and calibration standards.
Safety Note: n-Heptane is classified as a flammable liquid (Category 2) and may cause central nervous system depression upon inhalation. Prolonged skin contact can lead to irritation or defatting dermatitis. It is also harmful to aquatic life.