How does the structure of benzene differ from the pre-assumed structure of 1,3,5-cyclohexatriene? *Kekule's structure*

(drawing of the two) There are three main ways that we can tell the correct structure of benzene consists of a delocalised ring. They are:

  • the delocalised structure is more stable that the proposed alkene structure shown by the enthalpy change of formation.
  • considering the double bonds, benzene (as a localised structure) would react wth bromine in an addition reaction like any other alkene. however, it undergoes a substitution reaction.
  • the bond lengths in benzene are all the same, however kekule's structure suggested that the C-C bonds should be longer than the C=C bonds leading to 3 long and 3 short bonds.
FN

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What do the numbers mean at the side of an element in the periodic table?


Balance the following equation: Na + H2O -> NaOH + H2


How can I work out whether a hydrocarbon is an alkene or an alkane from its molecular formula?


What elements make up the halides?