biphenyl

n.
A colorless crystalline compound, C₁₂H₁₀, used as a heat-transfer agent, in fungicides, and in organic synthesis. Also called diphenyl.

(bī-fĕn'əl, -fē'nəl)
n.

A colorless crystalline aromatic hydrocarbon used in fungicides and in organic synthesis. Also called diphenyl.

Polybrominated and polychlorinated biphenyls are widely used industrial chemicals, as flame retardants, heat transfer agents and electrical insulators.

• b. poisoning — these chemicals are not known to produce illness in the average environment, but they accumulate in fat and have a very slow rate of excretion and biodegradability. Experimental poisoning causes diarrhea, poor weight gain, growth retardation and abortion.