Molecular polarisability. The dipole moments and Molar Kerr constants of the dinitrobenzenes

Abstract

Dipole moments and Molar Kerr constants at 25° are reported for 1,2- and 1,3-dinitrobenzene as solutes in carbon tetrachloride, cyclohexane, benzene, and mesitylene, and for 1,4-dinitrobenzene in benzene. The results provide information concerning the configurations of these molecules in the dissolved state. In 1,2-dinitrobenzene the nitro-groups are substantially rotated from coplanarity with the benzene ring. The data for 1,3- and 1,4-dinitrobenzene are compatible with the presence in solution of the resonance-stabilised planar configurations. The stereochemistry of complexes formed by the dinitrobenzenes with benzene and mesitylene is investigated.