Question

Chlorobenzene is formed by reaction of chlorine with benzene in the presence of $AlCl_3$. Which of the following species attacks the benzene ring in this reaction?

• A. $Cl^-$
• B. $Cl^+$
• C. $AlCl_3$
• D. $[AlCl_4]^-$

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

$Cl^+$

Answer 2

During chlorination of benzene, anhydrous $AlCl_3$, being a Lewis acid helps in generation of the electrophile $Cl^+$ by combining with the attacking reagent. The electrophile $Cl^+$ attacks the benzene ring in this reaction.