Möbius Aromaticity
Möbius aromaticity is a special type of aromaticity where a compound does not follow huckle's rule because it develops a twist, like a Möbius strip. But still remains aromatic. More details will be explained in this section.
What is Möbius Aromaticity?
Möbius aromatic compounds:
1) Are cyclic and conjugated
2) They obtain a 180 degree twist once before connecting like a Möbius strip.
3) Still have a continuous overlap of p orbital.
4) Follow a different electron rule than standard aromatic compounds.
Hückel vs Möbius aromaticity
| property | Hückel Aromaticity | Möbius Aromaticity |
|---|---|---|
| Planarity | Must be planar | Must be twisted |
| π-electron rule | 4n + 2 π electrons | 4n π electrons |
| Stability | Highly stable | Stable under certain conditions |
| Example compound | Benzene | Möbius annulene (theoretical) |
