Tetradecane is a straight-chain alkane with the chemical formula C14H30. It consists of 14 carbon atoms and is part of the alkane family, which are saturated hydrocarbons. Tetradecane is a colorless liquid at room temperature and is commonly found in various natural sources, including petroleum and waxes. This compound is often used in laboratories and industrial applications, such as in the production of detergents and as a solvent. Tetradecane also serves as a standard in gas chromatography, a technique used to separate and analyze compounds in a mixture.