Chapter 14, Problem 14.43P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Which ketone, $\text{E}$ or $\text{F}$, has the more stable $\text{π}$ system is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The aromatic compounds are stable due to a stable conjugated $\text{π}$ system. The stability of $\text{π}$ system of a molecule can also be determined from one of the resonance contributors. The molecules, to be an aromatic, must obey Hückel’s rule of $\text{(4n+2)π}$ electrons where $\text{n}$ is an integer. The aromatic molecules have planar, cyclic structures with cyclic conjugated system. The antiaromatic molecules are also planar, cyclic with conjugated system but have $\text{(4n)π}$ electrons. If the molecule does not satisfy any of these conditions, it is said to be nonaromatic.