The Kekule structure of benzene failed to explain
Correct answer: C. why benzene resists addition reactions and has all its carbon to carbon bonds of equal length
- A. the molecular formula C6H6
- B. the ring shape of the molecule
- C. why benzene resists addition reactions and has all its carbon to carbon bonds of equal length
- D. why benzene contains only carbon and hydrogen
Explanation
Alternating single and double bonds would predict two different bond lengths and the ready addition reactions of an alkene, but experiment shows a single intermediate bond length of 0.139 nm and a strong preference for substitution. The modern picture replaces the alternating bonds with a delocalised ring of six pi electrons above and below the plane. That delocalisation is what makes benzene unusually stable.
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About Benzene and Aromatic Compounds
Benzene has a planar ring of delocalised π electrons, giving aromatic stability and equal carbon-carbon bond lengths. The topic covers resonance, electrophilic substitution reactions such as nitration, halogenation, sulphonation and Friedel-Crafts reactions, along with substituent effects and the distinction between substitution in benzene and addition in ordinary alkenes.
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1,091 free Chemistry of Hydrocarbons MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
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