Why is Kekule's benzene structure an inaccurate representation of the molecule?

Firstly all of benzene's bonds are the same length and therefore there cannot be both double bonds and single bonds in the molecule. Secondly the bond angles are all the same as well which would not be the case if Kekule's structure was correct. Thirdly the electrons are delocalised around the carbon ring, there are 6 delocalised electrons, one from each carbon in the ring. The structure of the benzene ring is more accurately represented by a hexagon with a circle in the centre as we mainly do now.

PM
Answered by Patrick M. Chemistry tutor

23247 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Using your knowledge of periodicity and atomic structure, why does the first ionisation energy decrease moving down a group yet increase moving along a period in the periodic table?


Magnesium is a bulk metal in our bodies. What is it’s main role regarding ATP?


Why do branch chained isomers have lower boiling point than straight chain equivalents?


If we burn 3 moles of carbon in air (as per the equation), what mass (in grams) of carbon dioxide will be produced? What volume will this gas occupy at standard temperature and pressure?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning