Advanced Chemistry: Benzene and Benzene Compounds

This course covers benzene, the simplest arenes with the formula C₆H₆ forming a ring, and Phenol, the simplest phenolic compound with the chemical formula C₆H₅OH. We first outline the structure of benzene and explain how issues with the benzene Kekulé structure are resolved by the delocalisation of the pi bonds. We then show you how the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) uses a naming convention that puts the word ‘benzene’ after the name and location of the functional group (e.g. methylbenzene).

This advanced chemistry course then describes the basic principles of substitution reactions and the substitution steps, such as forming an intermediate (sigma complex) and removing a hydrogen atom. We explore benzene substitution reactions, including halogenation (substitution of H with halogen: Cl or Br), Nitration (substitution with −NO₂), Sulfonation (substitution with −SO₃H) and Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylations (substitution with −R or RCO−).

The course also examines the structure of phenol, which has one or more hydroxyl groups connected directly to one or more benzene rings. We outline the physical properties of phenol, such as its melting and boiling points, solubility and acidity. We then discuss reactions involving phenol's -OH (acid-base reactions) and its benzene ring. Lastly, we describe the preparation of benzyl chloride, benzyl alcohol and benzoic acid as well as the synthesis of salicylic acid (Kolbe-Schmitt reaction). This course has no prerequisites and suits students and aspiring chemists. Enrol to improve your knowledge of organic compounds and polish your advanced chemistry skills.