naphthene

[naf-theen, nap-] /ˈnæf θin, ˈnæp-/

noun, Chemistry

any of a group of hydrocarbon ring compounds of the general formula, C _n H _2n , derivatives of cyclopentane and cyclohexane, found in certain petroleums.

Origin

1840-50; naphth- + -ene

Related forms

naphthenic

[naf-thee-nik, -then-ik, nap-] /næfˈθi nɪk, -ˈθɛn ɪk, næp-/ (Show IPA), adjective

Examples from the web for naphthene

The time required for division was significantly increased in ace- naphthene-treated cells.
The fractional distillation of crude oils produces either paraffine or naphthene.
In sewer systems the presence of oils and immiscible liquids, such as naphthene and ether, may cause explosive conditions.

British Dictionary definitions for naphthene

naphthene

/ˈnæfθiːn; ˈnæp-/

noun

any of a class of cycloalkanes, mainly derivatives of cyclopentane, found in petroleum

Word Origin

C20: from naphtha + -ene

naphthene in Science

naphthene

(nāf'thēn', nāp'-)
See cycloalkane.