What does ‘aromatic’ mean?

In A Level Chemistry, the word aromatic means a molecule’s structure contains at least one cyclic ring which has a delocalised pi electron cloud above and below it. This occurs from unbonded P orbital electrons becoming delocalised from their (usually carbon) atom and being spread across the whole ring structure, which stabilises the molecule. Drawing the molecule in this way is known as its resonance structure.

SL
Answered by Sam L. Chemistry tutor

3252 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the trend in atomic radius of the elements across Period 3 and why does this occur?


What is the oxidation state of chlorine (Cl) in HClO?


What is meant by the term 'Electronegativity'


(Essay question) How are cycles important in biology?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning