Hexane is an organic compound and a straight-chain alkane with six carbon atoms, having the molecular formula C6H14. It is a colorless liquid that is odorless when pure and highly flammable. Hexane is used for various purposes, including as a solvent to extract edible oils from seeds and vegetables, as a cleaning agent, and as a special-use solvent. Here are some key facts about hexane:

• Uses: The main use of hexane is as a solvent to extract edible oils from seed and vegetable crops, such as soybeans, peanuts, and corn. It is also used as a solvent for glues, varnishes, and inks, and as a cleaning agent in the printing industry.

• Safety: Hexane is highly flammable and can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Inhaling hexane can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs, and prolonged exposure can cause headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Higher levels of exposure can cause coma and death.

• Health risks: Hexane can cause long-lasting and even permanent nerve damage in feet, legs, hands, and arms. It is easily inhaled or absorbed through the skin, and existing regulations do not address consumer use and are not protective enough for workplace exposures.

• Isomers: The term "hexanes" refers to a mixture composed largely (>60%) of n-hexane, with varying amounts of the isomeric compounds 2-methylpentane and 3-methylpentane, and possibly smaller amounts of nonisomeric C5, C6, and C7 (cyclo)alkanes.

• Solvent properties: Like most alkanes, hexane exhibits low reactivity and is suitable as a solvent for reactive compounds.

In summary, hexane is a colorless liquid that is widely used as a solvent to extract edible oils from seeds and vegetables, as a cleaning agent, and as a special-use solvent. It is highly flammable and can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact, and inhaling hexane can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs. Hexane can also cause long-lasting and even permanent nerve damage in feet, legs, hands, and arms.