Explain the resistance to bromination of benzene in comparison to phenol.

In phenol, one of the lone pairs of electrons in a p-orbital of the oxygen atom in the -OH group overlaps with the delocalised ring of electrons in the ring. This lone pair is partially delocalised into the pi-system in the benzene ring. This increases electron density of the ring, meaning it is able to induce a dipole in Br2 and so can undergo electrophilic substitution. In benzene, the electrons are delocalised which means the negative charge is spread out through the ring causing benzene to have a lower electron density and so can't induce a dipole in Br2.

CH
Answered by Cerys H. Chemistry tutor

4418 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What causes a chemical reaction to happen?


What is the difference between London dispersion forces and hydrogen bonds?


State an explain the result of an increase in temperature on the following equilibria: N2 (g) + 02 (g) <-> 2 NO (g) (delta H = +180kJmol-1)


What is the geometry of a ClF3 molecule? (AQA Unit 1 2015 1d)


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