a saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon having the formula CnH2n+2 (for example, methane, CH4; ethane, C2H6). Heavier paraffin hydrocarbons (for example, C18H38) form a waxlike substance that is called paraffin. These heavier paraffins often accumulate on the walls of tubing and other production equipment, restricting or stopping the flow of the desirable lighter paraffins.