Molecules with an extended π system well described by resonance hybrid

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SUMMARY

Molecules with an extended π system, such as linear polyenes and polyaromatic compounds, are accurately described using resonance hybrids and delocalized orbitals in molecular orbital theory. Extended π systems involve multiple overlapping p-orbitals that contribute to resonance stabilization. Examples of linear polyenes include butadiene and hexatriene, while polyaromatic compounds include naphthalene and anthracene. Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping the behavior of complex organic molecules.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of resonance structures in chemistry
  • Familiarity with molecular orbital theory
  • Knowledge of linear polyenes, such as butadiene and hexatriene
  • Awareness of polyaromatic compounds, including naphthalene and anthracene
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of resonance hybrids in organic chemistry
  • Study the properties and applications of linear polyenes
  • Explore the characteristics of polyaromatic hydrocarbons
  • Learn about molecular orbital theory and its implications for chemical bonding
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, organic chemists, and researchers focusing on molecular structure and stability in organic compounds.

Huzaifa
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Homework Statement:: [...] Molecules with an extended π system such as linear polyenes and polyaromatic compounds are well described by resonance hybrids as well as by delocalized orbitals in molecular orbital theory.
Relevant Equations:: N/A

This is not a Homework question. I was reading Resonance (chemistry) from Wikipedia. I am not able to understand this sentence, "Molecules with an extended π system such as linear polyenes and polyaromatic compounds are well described by resonance hybrids as well as by delocalized orbitals in molecular orbital theory "

What is an extended π system? Given examples of linear polyenes and polyaromatic compounds of extended π system, when I searched polyaromatic, I found bee honeycomb images.
Hexabenzocoronene.svg.png


[Moderator's note: moved from a homework forum.]
 
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You see a honeycomb, I see a system where each individual ring - thanks to the resonance - has a π system. They do combine meaning the system is extended.

For some rings it is immediately obvious, for some it requires spotting that - while the double bond is drawn as if it was on the other side - it is technically shared by two rings, for some it requires drawing a resonance structure. But it is all there.
 
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