Definition

A colorless solid substance made of carbon and hydrogen, often found in coal tar, used in making dyes, drugs, and explosives.

Example

Phenanthrene is often used in the production of various dyes and pharmaceuticals.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of phenanthrene?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a type of hydrocarbon found in coal tar, used in various products.

That sounds interesting! I didn’t know coal tar had so many uses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phenanthrene is formed from "pheno-" (from Greek "phainō", meaning to show or to appear) and "anthrōn" (from Greek "anthrōpos", meaning human or man). The word refers to a compound that shows a structure resembling that of three fused benzene rings, thus relating to its appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'showing' ('pheno-') a structure that resembles 'three fused rings' ('anthrōn') — that's how phenanthrene is recognized.

Visually Confused Words