Solid paraffin, known as paraffin wax, is a white, odorless, tasteless substance. It is made from a series of straight-chain hydrocarbons, which typically have a melting point between 120-150 degrees Fahrenheit, or 48-66 degrees Celsius. It is produced by de-waxing light lubricating oils, a by-product of their refinement. Among its uses, melted paraffin wax can be applied to your hands to soften them. Leave the wax on until it hardens, then slide or peel it off your hands. Make sure the wax cools a bit before dipping your hands in it.
Liquid paraffin, sometimes called Kerosene, is a similar chain of hydrocarbons, however they are typically heavier. Liquid paraffin comes in two predominant categories: heavy liquid paraffin and light liquid paraffin. It is obtained by the distillation of petroleum products. It is used not only as a fuel for lamps, but also as a medical laxative and to power jet engines.
Paraffin has the chemical formula CnH(2n+2) where n is an integer between 20 and 27. It is insoluble in water, but dissolves in other chemicals, including ether and benzene. It is relatively non-reactive to other chemicals, but it does burn easily, hence many of its commercial and industrial uses.