Dodecane is a straight-chain alkane with the chemical formula C12H26. It consists of twelve carbon atoms and is commonly found in various natural sources, including crude oil and certain plant oils. Dodecane is a colorless liquid at room temperature and has a mild, petroleum-like odor. It is primarily used as a solvent and in the production of detergents and surfactants. In addition to its industrial applications, dodecane serves as a reference compound in gas chromatography, a technique used to separate and analyze compounds in a mixture. Its properties make it useful in research and development within the fields of chemistry and materials science.