Kerosene is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, and it does not have a single, definitive chemical formula. However, it is commonly represented by the approximate formula C12H26.
This formula indicates that kerosene is generally composed of 12 carbon atoms and 26 hydrogen atoms, reflecting its classification as a middle distillate of crude oil. The actual composition can vary widely depending on the source and refining process, as kerosene is made up of various alkanes, cycloalkanes, and aromatic hydrocarbons.
Due to its mixture of components, kerosene does not fit neatly into one chemical structure, which is why it is referenced in broader terms rather than having a singular chemical formula. It’s important in aviation fuel, heating, and lighting due to its favorable properties.