Question

describe the symmetries of each molecule shown.
a. benzene b. water c. hydrogen peroxide

a. describe the symmetries of the benzene molecule. select the correct choice below and, if necessary, fill in the answer box(es) to complete your choice.
o a. the benzene molecule has line(s) of symmetry and does not have rotational symmetry
o b. the benzene molecule does not have any symmetry
o c. the benzene molecule has line(s) of symmetry, point symmetry, and the following rotational symmetry(ies)
(use a comma to separate answers as needed. do not include the degree symbol in your answer.)
o d. the benzene molecule has the following rotational symmetry(ies) , point symmetry, and does not have reflectional symmetry
(use a comma to separate answers as needed. do not include the degree symbol in your answer)

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze benzene's symmetry

Benzene ($C_6H_6$) is a planar molecule. It has 6 lines of symmetry (3 are along the axes connecting opposite carbon - carbon bonds and 3 are along the axes passing through opposite carbon atoms). It also has point symmetry (the center of the hexagon is the point of symmetry). And it has rotational symmetry. Rotating it by 60°, 120°, 180°, 240°, 300°, and 360° about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the molecule and passing through its center will result in the same - looking molecule.

Answer:

C. The benzene molecule has 6 line(s) of symmetry, point symmetry, and the following rotational symmetry(ies) 60,120,180,240,300,360