Kerosene is a combustible hydrocarbon liquid that is commonly used as a FUEL. It is also known as paraffin, lamp OIL, and coal OIL. The term kerosene is derived from the Greek word 'keros' meaning wax. It is composed of hydrocarbons with between 6 and 16 carbon atoms per molecule and has a boiling point of about 150-300°C. It is often used as a FUEL for lamps, heaters, and stoves. It is also used in jet engines and as a solvent for cleaning and degreasing.