What is the Difference Between Naphthalene and Anthracene?

Naphthalene and anthracene are both organic compounds categorized as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). They differ in their chemical formulas, structures, and reactivity. Here are the key differences between naphthalene and anthracene:

1. Chemical Formula: Naphthalene has the chemical formula C10H8, while anthracene has the chemical formula C14H10.
2. Structure: Naphthalene has two similar rings, whereas anthracene has three similar rings. The anthracene structure has a middle ring that is significantly different ("less aromatic") from the other two rings.
3. Crystal Unit: The crystal unit of naphthalene contains five carbon and four hydrogen atoms, while the anthracene unit contains seven carbon and five hydrogen atoms.
4. Reactivity: Although naphthalene, anthracene, and other PAHs resemble benzene in many respects, they are more reactive than benzene in both substitution and addition reactions. Anthracene is even more reactive than naphthalene and has a greater tendency to undergo addition reactions at the 9,10 position.

In summary, naphthalene and anthracene are both organic compounds with distinct structures and chemical formulas. They differ in their reactivity, with anthracene being more reactive than naphthalene.

Comparative Table: Naphthalene vs Anthracene

The main difference between naphthalene and anthracene is the number of similar rings in their structures. Here is a table comparing the two:

Naphthalene and anthracene are both polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with distinct structures. Naphthalene has two similar rings and occurs as white solid crystals or flakes, while anthracene has three similar rings and occurs as colorless crystals. The central ring in anthracene is considered to be more aromatic than the outer rings. Both compounds have similar resonance energy per ring, with naphthalene having slightly higher resonance energy. The reactivity of these compounds may vary due to their structural differences.