a hydrocarbon having the formula CnH2n + 2 (methane, CH4; ethane, C2H6; etc.) Heavier paraffin hydrocarbons (i.e., those of C18H38 and heavier) form a waxlike substance that is called paraffin. Heavier paraffins often accumulate on the walls of tubing and other production equipment, restricting or stopping the flow of desirable lighter paraffins.
