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)

Answered by Chemistry tutor

12814 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

State the H-O-H bond angle of a water molecule and explain why this is the case.


A solution of ethanoic acid is made by dissolving 3g of pure liquid propanoic acid in 500cm^3 water. Given the pH of the solution is 2.98, calculate Ka.


Draw an example using a diagram of Carbon, three "Y" substrates and an "L" indicating any leaving group the Sn1 nucleophilic substitution reaction. (3 marks) Which step is fastest (1 mark).


Why does the first ionisation energy of atoms generally increase across a period?


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