Why is phenol more reactive than benzene?

Benzene is made from an aromatic ring consisting of 6 carbon atoms and 6 hydrogen atoms, with delocalised electrons in the centre. Phenol has an additional hydroxy (-OH) group on the ring, and the oxygen atom has a lone pair of electrons on it. These electrons are donated into the pool of delocalised electrons, making phenol more electronegative than benzene. This leaves phenol more susceptible to attack by electrophiles than benzene, meaning it is more likely to undergo electrophilic reactions than benzene is.

EL
Answered by Erin L. Chemistry tutor

6470 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does ionisation energy change down a group?


Explain why alkenes can have stereoisomers


The pH of pure water can vary depending on the temperature it is held at. Does that mean pure water can be acidic or alkaline?


What are the Key features of benzene?


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