Anthracene is a solid polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon made up of three fused benzene rings. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow crystalline substance and is primarily used in the production of dyes, plastics, and as a precursor for other chemical compounds. This organic compound is found in coal tar and can also be produced synthetically. Anthracene is known for its ability to fluoresce under ultraviolet light, making it useful in various scientific applications, including as a scintillator in radiation detection.