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

13226 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can one differentiate between the organic compounds propanal (CH3CH2CHO) and propanone (CH3COCH3)?


Explain, in terms of frequencies, why solutions of transition metal ions are often coloured.


A) The compound butan-2-ol reacts with acidified potassium dichromate(VI) to form a new compound. Give the IUPAC name of the Product. B) 2,2-dimethyl butan-2-ol was subjected to the same conditions. State and explain the outcome


Pure water has a boiling point of 100 °C and a freezing point of 0 °C. What is the boiling point and freezing point of a sample of aqueous sodium chloride?


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