The chloronium ion (Cl+) is the electrophile in the chlorination of benzene. When chlorine gas (Cl2) dissolves in a Lewis acid, like ferric chloride (FeCl3), the chloronium ion is created. By giving the chlorine gas electrons, the Lewis acid improves its electrophilia. After attacking the benzene ring, the chloronium ion can displace a hydrogen atom to create chlorobenzene (C6H5Cl).
The chloronium ion (Cl+) is the electrophile in the chlorination of benzene. When chlorine gas (Cl2) dissolves in a Lewis acid, like ferric chloride (FeCl3), the chloronium ion is created. By giving the chlorine gas electrons, the Lewis acid improves its electrophilia. After attacking the benzene ring, the chloronium ion can displace a hydrogen atom to create chlorobenzene (C6H5Cl).