Used as a solvent in chemical research and industrial applications due to its non-polar nature and moderate evaporation rate. Commonly employed in calibration of gas chromatography equipment as a reference compound. Also found in fragrance formulations and flavoring agents where it contributes to woody and herbal notes. Serves as a component in fuel blends for testing combustion properties and in the formulation of specialty lubricants. Its long hydrocarbon chain makes it useful in studies involving hydrophobic interactions and membrane behavior in model systems.