Why is Kekule's benzene structure an inaccurate representation of the molecule?

Firstly all of benzene's bonds are the same length and therefore there cannot be both double bonds and single bonds in the molecule. Secondly the bond angles are all the same as well which would not be the case if Kekule's structure was correct. Thirdly the electrons are delocalised around the carbon ring, there are 6 delocalised electrons, one from each carbon in the ring. The structure of the benzene ring is more accurately represented by a hexagon with a circle in the centre as we mainly do now.

PM
Answered by Patrick M. Chemistry tutor

23620 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Name the type of reaction and outline the mechanism for the reaction of the alcohol (CH3)2CHOH with the acyl chloride CH3COCl. Explain which orbitals take part in the reaction.


Explain why the second ionisation energy of Magnesium is lower than the second ionisation energy of Sodium.


Differences between Sn1 and Sn2 reactions


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


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