WAXES ARE USUALLY SOLID AT ROOM TEMPERATURE because they contain linear paraffinic hydrocarbons with carbon chains of various lengths. Waxes can vary in consistency from easily kneadable to brittle. They exhibit relatively low viscosity at temperatures slightly above melting point. the appearnce of the waxes can vary fronm translucent to opaque, but they are not glassy. The consistency (i.e., hardness) and solubility of waxes depends on the temperature at which they are observed.