Hexane (${\mathrm{C}}_6{\mathrm{H}}_{14}$)

Hexane is an alkane with formula ${\mathrm{C}}_6{\mathrm{H}}_{14}$; the unqualified laboratory name often refers to the straight-chain isomer, n-hexane. Other constitutional isomers share the same formula.

Its mostly nonpolar molecular surface explains its use as a solvent for many hydrophobic substances. Commercial mixtures called hexanes need not be a chemically pure single isomer, so the material name and molecular identity should not be treated as interchangeable.