Exemplar Problems

Problem 20 : Explain why benzene (C₆H₆) is more stable than cyclohexene (C₆H₁₀).

Solution :

Benzene (C₆H₆) is more stable than cyclohexene (C₆H₁₀) due to resonance. In benzene, the pi (π) electrons are delocalized throughout the ring, leading to greater stability and a uniform distribution of electron density. In cyclohexene, there is no resonance, and the pi (π) electrons are localized in the double bond, causing higher reactivity and less stability.