Biphenyl is a term used to describe a colorless, crystalline organic compound that consists of two benzene rings connected by a single bond. It is also known as diphenyl. The molecular formula of biphenyl is C12H10, and it has a molecular weight of 154.21 grams per mole.
Biphenyl is classified as a hydrocarbon because it is made up solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. It is insoluble in water but exhibits good solubility in organic solvents such as ether, benzene, and alcohol.
This compound is widely used in various industries, including pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical manufacturing. Biphenyl is renowned for its ability to serve as a building block in the synthesis of other organic compounds, including pharmaceutical drugs, dyes, and fragrances. It is often employed as a starting material in the production of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which were previously used in electrical equipment such as capacitors and transformers.
Biphenyl has a high melting point and boiling point, making it stable at high temperatures. It is also known for its low reactivity, which makes it relatively inert in many chemical reactions. However, it can undergo substitution and halogenation reactions under specific conditions.
In terms of health and safety, biphenyl is generally considered to be a low toxicity compound. However, prolonged exposure to high levels of biphenyl and certain byproducts, such as PCBs, can have detrimental effects on living organisms. As a result, the use of biphenyl and its derivatives is strictly regulated in many countries.
