Kerosene is a clear, thin fuel made from petroleum (crude oil) that burns with a bright, steady flame. Before electric lights became common in the late 1800s, many families used kerosene lamps to light their homes after dark. The fuel was cheap, relatively safe, and produced a much better light than candles.

Today, kerosene still has important uses. It powers jet engines in airplanes (where some types are called jet fuel). People use kerosene heaters to warm homes and buildings where other heating isn't available. In many parts of the world without reliable electricity, kerosene lamps remain the main source of light after sunset.

You might also hear it called paraffin in some countries.

Kerosene sits between gasoline and diesel in thickness: thinner than diesel, but thicker and less explosive than gasoline. This makes it safer to store and handle than gasoline.