Electron delocalization in Benzophenone

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In summary, the question is whether all atoms except hydrogens participate in electron delocalization in benzophenone. The answer is yes, as the double bonds are in conjugation. However, despite this, the answer is also no because the pi bond on the carbonyl group may not participate with the benzene rings. The distinction between pi and sigma electrons is also mentioned, with the possibility of the oxygen in the carbonyl group having a partial negative charge and the carbon a partial positive charge. Finally, it is stated that all carbons in the benzene ring contribute to delocalization except for the oxygen, which tends to take electrons from carbon.
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GPhab
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Homework Statement


Are all the atoms except the hydrogens involved in electron delocalization in benzophenone?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Yes as the double bonds are in conjugation. But we were told that the answer is no. Can anybody explain why this so?
 
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  • #2
Distinguish between the pi and sigma electrons. I am not certain whether the pi bond on the carbonyl group participates with the benzenes , at the moment I am not able to envision it doing so.
 
  • #3
i would think that because of the stability of the two benzene rings they are very well delocalized, however oxygen from the carbonyl would give a partial negative charge itself and the carbon a partial positive, leaving a dipole moment towards oxygen. All carbons in the benzene ring DO contribute to the delocalization in the conjugated pi bonds, but the oxygen does not because its tendency is to want to take the electrons from carbon. if that makes sense.
 

1. What is electron delocalization in Benzophenone?

Electron delocalization in Benzophenone refers to the distribution of electrons throughout the molecule, rather than being localized to a specific atom or bond. This phenomenon is also known as resonance and is a result of the delocalized pi electron system in Benzophenone.

2. How does electron delocalization affect the reactivity of Benzophenone?

Electron delocalization in Benzophenone makes it more stable and less reactive compared to other aromatic compounds. This is because the delocalization of electrons reduces the overall energy of the molecule, making it less prone to undergo reactions.

3. What is the significance of electron delocalization in Benzophenone?

The electron delocalization in Benzophenone plays a crucial role in determining its physical and chemical properties. It contributes to the molecule's stability, reactivity, and spectroscopic properties, making it an important compound in various fields such as organic chemistry and pharmaceuticals.

4. How is electron delocalization in Benzophenone represented?

Electron delocalization in Benzophenone is commonly represented using resonance structures, which show the different possible arrangements of electrons in the molecule. The actual structure of Benzophenone is a hybrid of these resonance structures, with the delocalized electrons spread out over the entire molecule.

5. Can electron delocalization be observed experimentally in Benzophenone?

Yes, electron delocalization in Benzophenone can be observed experimentally through various techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. These methods can provide insights into the distribution of electrons and the stability of the molecule due to delocalization.

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