What is octan?

Octane is a colorless and flammable hydrocarbon that belongs to the alkane family of organic compounds. It has a chemical formula of C8H18 and a molecular weight of 114. It is commonly used as a fuel for internal combustion engines in automobiles and other vehicles because of its high energy content and relatively low volatility.

Octane is measured using the octane rating system, which measures a fuel's resistance to knocking or detonation during the combustion process. A higher octane rating indicates a fuel that is less likely to knock or detonate, which is important for high-performance engines.

Octane is also used in chemical production, such as in the production of plasticizers, adhesives, and coatings. It can be produced from crude oil or natural gas through a refining process.

Octane is a highly flammable substance and must be handled with care. It should be stored away from heat, sparks, and open flames. Ingesting or inhaling octane can be toxic and cause serious health problems.