heptane

American  

[hep-teyn] / ˈhɛp teɪn /

noun

1. any of nine isomeric hydrocarbons, C 7 H 16 , of the alkane series, some of which are obtained from petroleum: used in fuels as solvents, and as chemical intermediates.

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heptane British  

/ ˈhɛpteɪn /

noun

1. 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

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heptane Scientific  

/ hĕp′tān′ /

1. 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: C ₇ H ₁₆ .

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Etymology

Origin of heptane

First recorded in 1870–75; hept- ( def. ) + -ane

Example Sentences

Gasoline is primarily composed of isooctane and heptane.

From Seattle Times

For example, gasoline with an 89 octane rating contains 11% heptane and 89% isooctane.

From Seattle Times

Detectives are also asking anyone with information on Dean having access to Ethyl Ether or Heptane chemicals around the time the crimes were allegedly committed to come forward.

From Fox News

As part of the tests, researchers will ignite pans of heptane, a liquid fuel, in eight rooms on the second and sixth floors to achieve temperatures as high as 1,000 degrees Celsius - almost 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

From Washington Times

If the unrated gasoline knocks at the same point as a mixture of 30% heptane and 70% isooctane, it is rated as "70 octane."

From Time Magazine Archive