Paraffin is a soft, waxy substance derived from petroleum. It is commonly used in making candles, as it burns cleanly and evenly. Paraffin is also found in various household products, such as cosmetics and food packaging, due to its ability to create a moisture barrier.
In addition to its uses in everyday items, paraffin has applications in industries like medicine and art. In medicine, it is used for embedding tissue samples for microscopic examination. Artists often use paraffin in sculpting and molding to create detailed designs, showcasing its versatility beyond just candles.