Definition

A colorless and flammable liquid made of hydrocarbons, commonly found in petroleum, used for various purposes including as a solvent and in measuring octane ratings.

Example

Heptane is often used in laboratories as a solvent for chemical reactions.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of heptane?

Yeah, isn’t it used as a solvent or something?

Exactly! It’s also important for determining octane ratings in gasoline.

That's really interesting! I never knew it had so many uses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heptane is formed from "hepta-" (from Greek "hepta", meaning seven) and "-ane" (a suffix used in organic chemistry to denote saturated hydrocarbons). The word "heptane" refers to a saturated hydrocarbon with seven carbon atoms in its molecular structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hepta-' meaning seven, which helps you remember that heptane is a hydrocarbon with seven carbon atoms.

Visually Confused Words