Antiaromatic

Definition

Antiaromatic compounds are cyclic molecules that do not follow Hückel's rule of having (4n + 2) π electrons, where n is a non-negative integer, leading to destabilization. They often possess 4n π electrons, which contributes to their lack of aromatic stability and reactivity.

Related terms

Aromaticity: A phenomenon in certain cyclic molecules where electrons are delocalized over pi bonds in a ring structure, leading to enhanced stability.

Hückel's rule: A rule used to determine if a planar ring molecule will have aromatic properties based on having a certain number of π electrons (4n + 2).

Delocalization: The spreading out of electron density over several atoms in a molecule, contributing to stability in aromatic systems