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

22445 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is hydrogen bonding and why does water have a higher boiling point than methanol?


What is the difference between intermolecular and intramolecular bonds.


Name the three steps in free radical substitution and give an example equation for each


Describe the structure of benzene, and how this affects its stability.


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning