The Delocalised Model of Benzene

Edexcel A-level ChemistryArenesLesson 3 of 13

In the delocalised model, each of the six carbon atoms in benzene uses three of its four outer electrons to form σ bonds: two to neighbouring carbon atoms and one to a hydrogen atom. These σ bonds lie in one plane at 120° to each other, so the molecule is planar.

The fourth electron of each carbon is in a p orbital, which sticks out above and below the plane of the ring. Each p orbital overlaps sideways with the p orbitals on both neighbouring carbons, not just one. This forms a continuous π system: rings of electron density above and below the plane of the carbon atoms.

More in Arenes

• Benzene
• The Kekulé Model
• Evidence for Delocalisation
• Combustion of Benzene
• Electrophilic Substitution
• Bromination of Benzene
• Nitration of Benzene
• Friedel-Crafts Alkylation

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