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Explain in terms of bonding why it is more correct to represent the benzene molecule as instead of or - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question i - 2007
Question i
Explain in terms of bonding why it is more correct to represent the benzene molecule as instead of or
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain in terms of bonding why it is more correct to represent the benzene molecule as instead of or - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question i - 2007
Step 1
All carbon-to-carbon bonds are identical
Answer
In benzene, all the carbon-to-carbon bonds are identical and of the same length. This uniformity is a key reason it is incorrect to represent benzene with distinct single and double bonds. Each bond shares characteristics that differ from both simple single and double bonds.
Step 2
Resonance structure
Answer
Benzene is best represented as a resonance structure that encompasses the intermediate nature between single and double bonds. The electrons involved in bond formation are delocalized, meaning they are not fixed in one particular bond but are spread across the entire molecule.
Step 3
Delocalized electrons
Answer
The six valence electrons from carbon atoms are not confined to individual bonds but are shared across the entire benzene ring. This delocalization leads to the stability of the molecule and further emphasizes why a single representation of benzene does not adequately capture its true nature.