[M.D. Holloway]

'Some petroleum products have similar, but not identical, specifications and physical properties. For example, No. 2 fuel oil and No. 2-GT gas turbine fuel are similar to No. 2-D diesel fuel. And No. 1-GT gas turbine fuel oil, Jet A Aviation Turbine Fuel, and kerosine, the product specifically sold for use in lamps and stoves, are similar to No. 1-D diesel fuel.5

The specifications for each product are developed to ensure that it is suitable for the intended use. The fuel properties needed to keep a lamp burning are not nearly so stringent as those required to keep a jet aircraft aloft. Products with similar physical properties should not be used interchangeably without a complete understanding of the requirements of the intended use.'

Kerosene:
Boiling point: 150°C
Melting point: -20°C
Relative density (water = 1): 0.8
Solubility in water: insoluble
Relative vapour density (air = 1): 4.5
Flash point: 37-65°C
Auto-ignition temperature: 220°C
Explosive limits, vol% in air: 0.7-5

Diesel Fuel
Boiling point: 160 - 325°C
Melting point: 15 to -30°C
Relative density (water = 1): 0.81 to 0.94
Solubility in water: insoluble
Relative vapour density (air = 1): 2.12 - 26mmHg
Flash point: 38-65°C
Auto-ignition temperature: 177 - 329°C
Explosive limits, vol% in air: 0.7-5

They are different but not by much. Often folks blend kerosene into diesel fuel to lower the gel point - typically called a winter grade.