Used primarily as a reference standard in gas chromatography due to its well-defined boiling point and stability. Commonly employed in environmental testing to calibrate instruments for hydrocarbon analysis. Serves as a model compound in research on alkane biodegradation and microbial metabolism. Also utilized in the formulation of synthetic lubricants and as a component in fuel testing to evaluate combustion characteristics. Its long-chain structure makes it useful in studies of phase behavior and crystallization in paraffin systems.