Explain the relative resistance to bromination of benzene compared to phenol and compared to cyclohexene.

Within benzene the electrons within the pi-system are delocalised. This means the electrons are spread across the whole ring and has a lower electron density making it less susceptible to electrophilic attack. In comparison, phenol has an OH group which is partially delocalised into the benzene ring making it more electron dense than benzene and therefore more susceptible to electrophiles. Similarly, cyclohexene has three localised electrons in double bonds, meaning it also is more electron dense and like phenol can induce a dipole in Br2, unlike benzene. (includes diagrams in explanation)

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the trend in reactivity of Group 2 elements with halogens as the group is descended?


A chemist mixes together 0.450 mol N2 with 0.450 mol H2 in a sealed container. The mixture is heated and allowed to reach equilibrium. At equilibrium, the mixture contains 0.400 mol N2 and the total pressure is 500 kPa. Calculate Kp.


How do I systematically name alkanes?


Calculate the relative atomic mass of an atom.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences