Pentacontane is a straight-chain alkane hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C50H102. It consists of 50 carbon atoms and 102 hydrogen atoms, making it one of the higher members of the alkane series. Pentacontane is a colorless, waxy solid at room temperature and is typically found in certain types of natural waxes. This compound is part of a larger group of hydrocarbons known as alkanes, which are saturated hydrocarbons with single bonds between carbon atoms. Pentacontane can be used in various applications, including as a component in lubricants and in the study of long-chain hydrocarbons in organic chemistry.