Benzene
Benzene
Formula
C₆H₆; resonance energy ≈ 150 kJ mol⁻¹
Real World
Michael Faraday first isolated benzene from compressed whale oil gas in 1825. Today benzene is a key feedstock at INEOS plants for producing styrene, phenol, and nylon precursors.
Exam Focus
Use thermochemical hydrogenation data to show benzene is 150 kJ mol⁻¹ more stable than predicted — never call bonds 'alternating'.
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