Used primarily as a reference standard in gas chromatography and mass spectrometry due to its well-defined hydrocarbon chain length. It serves in the analysis of complex hydrocarbon mixtures, such as petroleum products and environmental samples, helping to calibrate instruments and identify unknown compounds based on retention times. Also found in waxy coatings of some plants and insects, it aids in studies of cuticular hydrocarbons related to pest resistance and species identification in entomology. Its high molecular weight and stability make it useful in research involving long-chain alkane behavior, including combustion studies and biomarker analysis in geochemistry.