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Summary Arenes & Aromatic Chemistry: Benzene, Phenols & Electrophilic Substitution – A-Level/IB Notes

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This document provides detailed A-Level/IB Chemistry notes on arenes (aromatic compounds), focusing on benzene’s structure, stability, and reactions, as well as the chemistry of phenols. Key Topics Covered: Benzene Structure & Stability: Kekulé’s Model vs. Reality: Benzene’s unexpected stability (resonance energy, -208 kJ/mol vs. expected -360 kJ/mol). Equal bond lengths (evidence against alternating double/single bonds). Delocalized π-system explains low reactivity (does not decolorize bromine water). Electrophilic Substitution Reactions: Requires a strong electrophile (E⁺) due to benzene’s electron-rich ring. Mechanisms for: Nitration (with HNO₃/H₂SO₄, forming NO₂⁺). Halogenation (with Cl₂/FeCl₃, forming Cl⁺). Friedel-Crafts Alkylation/Acylation (adding R-groups or acyl groups). Phenols: Acidity: Weakly acidic (reacts with NaOH). Bromination: Forms white precipitate (2,4,6-tribromophenol) – a test for phenol. Directing Effects: Activating Groups (e.g., –OH): Increase electron density, direct electrophiles to 2/4/6 positions. Deactivating Groups (e.g., –NO₂): Decrease electron density, direct electrophiles to meta positions. Why This Document is Useful: Exam-Focused – Covers mechanisms (nitration, halogenation) and stability evidence for benzene. Clear Diagrams – Illustrates delocalization and electrophilic substitution steps. Practical Applications – Phenol tests (bromine water) and directing group effects. Structured & Concise – Ideal for quick revision before tests. Perfect for students mastering aromatic chemistry or teachers preparing lessons on arenes! ️

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Study Level: A/AS Level
Examinator: OCR
Subject: Chemistry A
Unit: Arenes

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Document information

Uploaded on: July 2, 2025
Number of pages: 5
Written in: 2024/2025
Type: Summary

Subjects

arenes
benzene
aromatic compounds
phenol
nitration
halogenation
delocalization
resonance
kekule structure
directing groups
activating groups
organic chemistry
friedel crafts
electrophilic substitution

Content preview

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Arene Molecule Containing a Benkering

Relate Studio Bentene
og

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Summary Arenes & Aromatic Chemistry: Benzene, Phenols & Electrophilic Substitution – A-Level/IB Notes

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