Define Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is a transparent, colorless, oily liquid obtained by the distillation of petroleum (or crude oil). It is produced in large amounts and is relatively inexpensive. There are several types of mineral oil, each of which is composed of hydrocarbons. It is useful in various capacities, including as an ingredient in cosmetics, ointments, certain laxatives, lubricating agents and wood and metal preservatives.
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Properties
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Mineral oil consists of a mixture of hydrocarbons, which means that the molecules are composed entirely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. As such, mineral oil is a non-polar material and does not mix with water. It is less dense than water, and therefore floats on water. It does not conduct electricity. It can burn, but its flash point is usually high.
Classification
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Depending on the types of hydrocarbons in the mixture, mineral oil is classified into three main types:
1. If the hydrocarbons in the mixture consist of mostly (or entirely) straight-chain molecules ("saturated n-alkanes"), the mineral oil is called a "paraffinic oil."2. If the hydrocarbons are mainly non-aromatic, cyclic molecules ("cycloalkanes"), the oil is called a "naphthenic oil."
3. If the hydrocarbons consist of molecules containing aromatic structure (such as benzene rings), the oil is called an "aromatic oil."
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Comparison with Other Oils
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Mineral oil is an oil that has a mineral origin. It is obtained from petroleum, which is extracted from the ground. By comparison, vegetable oils are obtained from plants, and animal oils are obtained from various animals. Some oils produced by plants have distinctive fragrances and are called essential oils. Purified animal oils available on the market include fish oil and whale oil.
Toxicity
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If mineral oil is ingested in small amounts, it is nontoxic and passes through the human digestive system nearly unabsorbed. However, ingestion of large amounts can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Its fumes can irritate the eyes, and breathing vapors of the material can cause chemical pneumonia. Prolonged contact with the skin can irritate the skin and might lead to dermatitis.
Uses
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Mineral oil is used in the preparation of lotions, cold creams, skin ointments and cosmetics. For personal health, it can be used occasionally as a laxative. For mechanical and electrical equipment, it is useful as a lubricant and non-conductive coolant. It is a protective agent for wooden items and metal tools. It can also be used for the removal of sticky, adhesive residues. In addition, it is used to give a glossy coat to certain types of candy.
Alternative Names
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Mineral oil has been given various other names, depending on its properties and functions. These names include baby oil, electrical insulating oil, heat-treating oil, hydraulic oil, liquid petrolatum, liquid petroleum and paraffin oil.
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