Explain the relative resistance to bromination of benzene compared to phenol and compared to cyclohexene.

Within benzene the electrons within the pi-system are delocalised. This means the electrons are spread across the whole ring and has a lower electron density making it less susceptible to electrophilic attack. In comparison, phenol has an OH group which is partially delocalised into the benzene ring making it more electron dense than benzene and therefore more susceptible to electrophiles. Similarly, cyclohexene has three localised electrons in double bonds, meaning it also is more electron dense and like phenol can induce a dipole in Br2, unlike benzene. (includes diagrams in explanation)

Answered by Chemistry tutor

12897 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the position of chemical equilibrium and how can it change? (A-Level/high GCSE)


What are the stereochemical implications of bimolecular and unimolecular nucleophilic substitution?


Explain why the first ionisation energy of Strontium is less than the first ionisation energy of Calcium


Proteins are an important part of a healthy diet because they provide essential amino acids. (a) State what is meant by an essential amino acid.


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