Paraffin

Paraffin is a common name for a group of high molecular weight alkane hydrocarbons with the general formula C_nH_2n+2, where n is an integer between 22 and 27. It is a petroleum product that is primarily used for candlemaking, and coatings for waxed paper or cloth.

It is mostly found as a white, odorless, tasteless, waxy solid, with a melting point between 47°C and 65°C. It is insoluble in water, but soluble in ether, benzene, and certain esters. Paraffin is unaffected by most common chemical reagent?s but oxidizes readily.