Kerosene is a thin, clear liquid made by distilling petroleum at high temperatures.
Kerosene, sometimes called paraffin oil, is a thin, clear, combustible liquid made by distilling petroleum at a high temperature. It produces an unpleasant-smelling smoke when it burns, which can be hazardous in enclosed areas. Despite the discovery of other energy sources, like electricity, kerosene is still widely used for a variety of purposes.
Lighting
Kerosene is the world's second most common source of light.
Before the advent of electric lighting, kerosene was a standard fuel for home lanterns. It is still widely used as a lighting source today, especially in the developing world. According to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, it is the second most common lighting source after candles.
Kerosene lamps range from simple wick lamps (e.g., hurricane lamps) to high-pressure kerosene lamps, which are also called paraffin lamps.
Solvent
According to the UK Health Protection Agency, kerosene is widely used as a solvent in paint and liquid pesticides, and as a degreaser in cleaning products.
Kerosene is also used as an oil-glazing agent in decorative glass finishing, where it increases the workability of glazes, and helps the previous glaze layer to fuse with the new one.
Lubricant
In glass-cutting applications, kerosene oil lubricates the wheel of the glass cutter and keeps it turning smoothly. It also keeps the wheel free of tiny glass chips that might otherwise get stuck between the wheel and the shaft. Kerosene oil also helps the cutter score the glass more cleanly, and prevents shards from flying up.
Heating and Fuel
Kerosene is used in aircraft fuel.
Kerosene is widely used as a source of heat, particularly in the developing world and Japan. Although kerosene heating can be a cheaper option than electric or gas heating, it is dangerous when used in areas that aren't properly ventilated, and it also poses a fire hazard.
Kerosene is also used as commercial jet fuel, under the name Jet-A.
Insecticide
A small amount of kerosene added to standing water will kill mosquito larvae. This was a common tactic against mosquitoes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, certain mosquito species have developed resistance to standard pesticides, and some communities are once again relying on this method to control malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.
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