Futalene

Futalene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C17H10. It is a yellow crystalline solid and is a member of the benzo[a]pyrene family of compounds. Futalene consists of five fused benzene rings arranged in a planar structure. Its IUPAC name is dibenzo[a,h]anthracene.

This compound is not naturally abundant but has been synthesized in laboratories. Futalene has been studied for its potential biological activity, including its mutagenic and carcinogenic properties, which are common characteristics of many polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Its presence has been detected in environmental samples, particularly those related to combustion processes such as coal tar and cigarette smoke, although at very low concentrations. Research into futalene often focuses on understanding its formation during incomplete combustion and its environmental fate. Due to its structural similarity to known carcinogens, futalene is of interest in toxicology and environmental science.