Definition

A clear, colorless liquid that is flammable and made from petroleum, often used as a solvent or in thermometers.

Example

Hexane is commonly used in laboratories as a solvent for various chemical reactions.

Conversation

Have you ever worked with hexane in your chemistry class?

Yeah, we used it to extract some oils from plants.

That's interesting! I heard it's a good solvent for various reactions.

It really is, just be careful with it since it's flammable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hexane is formed from "hex-" (from Greek "hex", meaning six) and "-ane" (a suffix used in organic chemistry to denote saturated hydrocarbons). The word "hexane" refers to a hydrocarbon with six carbon atoms in its chain.

Memory Tip

Think of the prefix 'hex-' meaning six, which helps you remember that hexane is a compound made up of six carbon atoms.

Visually Confused Words