Question

Organic compounds that contain a benzene ring or possess certain properties similar to those of benzene are called ______ compounds?

1) Aromatic
2) Aliphatic
3) Heterocyclic
4) Cyclic

Answer 1

Organic compounds with a benzene ring or benzene-like properties are called aromatic compounds, the term initially referring to their fragrance but now relating to their distinct structural features.

Step-by-step explanation:

Organic compounds that contain a benzene ring or possess certain properties similar to those of benzene are called aromatic compounds. Historically, these compounds were characterized by their distinct aromas, which is why the term aromatic was originally used. Today, the term aromatic refers more to the chemical structure and unique properties of these compounds, specifically the presence of a six-membered benzene ring with electrons that confer special energetic properties. This ring structure imparts physical and chemical properties different from other hydrocarbon types like alkanes. A representative example is ethylbenzene, which consists of a benzene ring with an ethyl group substituent.