Which of these is the rate-determining step in the sulfonation of benzene? A)Formation of SO₃ from sulfuric acid B)Protonation of SO₃sulfuric acid C)Addition of SO₃H⁺ to benzene to form the arenium ion D)Loss of a proton from the arenium ion to form benzenesulfonic acid E)None of these choices.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate-determining step is the slowest step in the reaction mechanism. In the sulfonation of benzene, the addition of the sulfur trioxide complex to benzene to form the arenium ion is the slowest step and therefore, the rate-determining step. This is because the formation of the arenium ion involves the breaking of the aromaticity of benzene, which is a relatively stable compound.

Which of These Is the Rate-Determining Step in the Sulfonation