As a chemical expert with a focus on organic chemistry, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question regarding the state of octane.

Octane, with the chemical formula C8H18, is a member of the alkane family. Alkanes are a class of hydrocarbons that consist entirely of carbon and hydrogen atoms, with single bonds linking the carbon atoms together. The phase of an alkane at room temperature can vary depending on the number of carbon atoms it contains.

In general, alkanes with four carbons or fewer are gases at room temperature. This is due to their relatively small size and weak intermolecular forces, which allow them to easily move past each other and exist in a gaseous state. As the number of carbon atoms increases, the size of the molecule also increases, leading to stronger intermolecular forces. These stronger forces require more energy to overcome, which in turn affects the phase of the alkane.

For alkanes with more than four carbon atoms, the phase changes as follows:
- Alkanes with 5 to 15 carbon atoms are typically liquids at room temperature. This is because the increased size and intermolecular forces are sufficient to keep the molecules close together, but not so strong as to form a solid structure.
- Alkanes with 16 or more carbon atoms are generally solids at room temperature. The large size and strong intermolecular forces result in a stable, solid structure.

Given that octane has eight carbon atoms, it falls into the category of alkanes that are liquids at room temperature. The intermolecular forces in octane are strong enough to keep the molecules in close proximity, resulting in a liquid phase. This is consistent with the general rule that alkanes with 5 to 15 carbon atoms are liquids.

It's important to note that the phase of a substance can also be influenced by other factors such as pressure and temperature. However, under standard conditions (atmospheric pressure and room temperature), octane is indeed a liquid.

In summary, octane, with its eight carbon atoms, is classified as a liquid at room temperature due to the balance between its molecular size and intermolecular forces. This understanding is based on the general properties of alkanes and their behavior as a function of the number of carbon atoms they contain.

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Octane has a general formula of C8H18 and is classified as alkanes. The phases of alkane at room temperature vary as the numbers of carbons are increase. Generally, alkane with 4 carbons or less are gas at room temperature. As the carbon number is increased, the phases change (solid - liquid - gas).read more >>