Benzene reacts with Chlorine gas in the presence of iron trichloride to yield hexachlorobenzene. However, when it reacts with fluorine gas, it forms a quinoid product (I would actually draw it for them - no need to know the name). Why the difference?

Fluorine is much more reactive than chlorine, even destroying the aromaticity. This is at the expense of the very strong C-F bonds (good orbital size and energy overlap) that are formed. C-Cl bonds are weaker so even when benzene is "burnt" in chlorine, the aromatic ring stays intact.

RB

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Briefly discuss Le Chatelier's Principle. Ammonia is made in the Haber Process (3H2(g) + N2(g)<-> 2NH3(g)). Using Le Chetelier's Principal, what happens to the equilibrium yield of ammonia when...: A) Temp increases, B) Press increases C) Catalyst changes


What's the difference between Sn1 and Sn2 reactions?


Give the two reactions required in order to convert an alcohol into a hydroxynitrile. Include reactants and conditions. (6 marks)


Explain, in terms of frequencies, why solutions of transition metal ions are often coloured.