What is a Biphenyl?

Biphenyl is an organic compound composed of two benzene rings connected by a single bond, with the chemical formula C₁₂H₁₀. It is a colorless crystalline solid that is poorly soluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents. It occurs naturally in crude oil and coal tar, and can also be synthesized artificially. Industrially, biphenyl is used as a heat transfer fluid and a preservative. It is best known as a precursor to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which were once widely used as insulating and cooling fluids but have since been banned in many countries due to their toxicity and environmental impact.

Biphenyl also exhibits antifungal properties, making it useful as a preservative for citrus fruits. In organic chemistry, it serves as a ligand and intermediate in the synthesis of various complex compounds.

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