In the resonance hybrid of the arenium ion (sigma complex) formed during the electrophilic attack on — Aromatic Hydrocarbons Chemistry Question
Question
In the resonance hybrid of the arenium ion (sigma complex) formed during the electrophilic attack on benzene, how many carbon atoms share the delocalized positive charge?
Answer: 5
💡 Solution & Explanation
The electrophile forms a covalent bond with one carbon atom, which becomes $sp^3$ hybridized and electrically neutral. The remaining 5 carbon atoms in the ring remain $sp^2$ hybridized, and the positive charge is delocalized across them via resonance.
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