heptane
any of nine isomeric hydrocarbons, C7H16, of the alkane series, some of which are obtained from petroleum: used in fuels as solvents, and as chemical intermediates.
Origin of heptane
1Words Nearby heptane
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British Dictionary definitions for heptane
/ (ˈhɛpteɪn) /
an alkane existing in nine isomeric forms, esp the isomer with a straight chain of carbon atoms (n- heptane), which is found in petroleum and used as an anaesthetic. Formula: C 7 H 16
Origin of heptane
1Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Scientific definitions for heptane
[ hĕp′tān′ ]
A volatile, colorless, highly flammable liquid hydrocarbon obtained in the fractional distillation of petroleum. It is used as a standard in determining octane ratings (combustion characteristics), as an anesthetic, and as a solvent. Heptane is the seventh member of the alkane series. Chemical formula: C7H16.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
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