Back to: Organic Chemistry 100 Level
Welcome to class!
Hi brilliant one! It’s so good to see you again today. I love how you’re staying committed to your learning journey—you’re doing amazing! Today, we’ll learn about something truly interesting and unique in Organic Chemistry: Aromatic Compounds. Don’t let the name confuse you—it’s more than just pleasant smells. Let’s talk about it in a way that connects to your everyday life in Nigeria.
Aromatic Compounds
What Are Aromatic Compounds?
Aromatic compounds are a special group of organic compounds that have ring structures with alternating double and single bonds. The most common example is benzene (C₆H₆).
These compounds were first called “aromatic” because many of them had strong, sweet smells. But today, aromatic means something more chemical—it refers to the structure and stability of the compound, not just its smell.
Structure of Benzene
Benzene is the most important aromatic compound. It has six carbon atoms arranged in a ring. Each carbon is bonded to one hydrogen atom, and the double bonds keep shifting around the ring, making it highly stable.
So, instead of seeing it as having 3 fixed double bonds, scientists now describe benzene as having a delocalised ring of electrons, which gives it a special kind of stability called aromatic stability.
Some Examples of Aromatic Compounds
Benzene (C₆H₆)
Toluene (C₆H₅CH₃) – used in making paints and fuels
Phenol (C₆H₅OH) – used as a disinfectant
Aniline (C₆H₅NH₂) – used in dye production
These compounds are commonly used in pharmaceuticals, plastics, dyes, fuels, and agrochemicals—things we interact with daily.
Properties of Aromatic Compounds
They are very stable due to delocalised electrons in the ring.
They usually undergo substitution reactions instead of addition, to keep the ring stable.
Many are non-polar and don’t dissolve well in water.
Some are toxic and must be handled with care.
A Real-Life Example You Can Relate To
Ever used a marker or glue and noticed that strong smell? That smell often comes from an aromatic compound like toluene or benzene. The same goes for some paints, insecticides, and cleaning products you might see around your home or in shops.
Also, when you see hair dyes or certain cosmetics—yes, you guessed right—aromatic compounds are in action again!
Naming Aromatic Compounds
We use IUPAC naming rules, just like with alkanes and alkenes.
Benzene is the parent name.
When a group replaces a hydrogen on the ring, we name it accordingly:
CH₃ on benzene: methylbenzene (toluene)
OH on benzene: hydroxybenzene (phenol)
NH₂ on benzene: aminobenzene (aniline)
Summary
- Aromatic compounds are ring-shaped hydrocarbons with alternating double bonds.
- Benzene is the simplest aromatic compound.
- They have delocalised electrons, which makes them very stable.
- They usually undergo substitution reactions.
- Aromatic compounds are found in everyday products like paints, perfumes, plastics, and drugs.
Evaluation
- What is the simplest aromatic compound?
- Why are aromatic compounds so stable?
- Name one aromatic compound found in disinfectants.
- What type of reaction do aromatic compounds usually undergo?
- What does “delocalised electrons” mean?
Well done, my star learner! You’ve just unlocked a whole new part of Organic Chemistry. You now understand what makes aromatic compounds so unique and important in everyday life. With Afrilearn, every class is designed to help you understand, grow, and succeed. You’re doing so well—keep the fire burning! See you in our next exciting class.