Give the molecular formula of benzene. Give the Kekule structure of benzene and then explain why this structure is not correct. Give the accepted structure for benzene (5 marks).

Molecular formula: C6H6The Kekule structure (draw on whiteboard in session) - has the hexagonal shape of the ring, with a carbon=carbon double bond on every other carbon-carbon link. This has been proven to be incorrect - the bond lengths in a benzene ring have been measured and the lengths of all six bonds are the same. The lengths measured put the bonds as between the length of carbon=carbon double bonds (shorter) and carbon-carbon single bonds (longer) leading to the currently accepted structure of benzene with the ring of delocalised electrons present (draw in session).

BS
Answered by Ben S. Chemistry tutor

2865 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why does the nucleophilic addition of a cyanide ion to an aldehyde form a racemic mixture?


I don't understand how the first two quantum numbers fit into describing atoms.


What is an empirical formula and how do I calculate it?


In terms of the structure and boiling point of graphite, explain why the melting point is high


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