First the nomenclature of this class of compounds is explained. Next, chemical properties are studied and related to resonance theory considerations. Finally, some approaches to the synthesis of this important class of compounds are presented. Rationale A great many dyes, some pigments and food colors, are derivatives of polynuclear aromatic compounds. Several carcinogenic compounds in tobacco smoke and automobile exhaust are polynuclear aromatic substances.
Some industrial intermediates are derivatives of polynuclear aromatic compounds.
Certain antibiotics are related to polynuclear aromatic parent molecules. Given these examples of the importance of polynuclear aromatic compounds, the need for an understanding of the fundamental chemical properties, system of nomenclature and methods of synthesis of this class of compounds by an organic chemist should be evident. Further, a study of polynuclear aromatic compounds can serve as a means to review and extend the general theory of aromatic structure and reactivity. Name polynuclear aromatic compounds containing up to five fused rings. Predict the product of reactions between polynuclear aromatics and electrophilic reagents.