heptane

[ hep-teyn ]

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.

heptane

/ 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

heptane

/ 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 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of heptane¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of heptane¹

C19: from hepta- + -ane , so called because it has seven carbon atoms