Which of the following molecules is aromatic according to Hückel's rule ($4n+2$ π electrons)?

• A. Cyclooctatetraene ($C_8{H}_8$)
• B. Cyclohexane ($C_6{H}_{12}$)
• C. Benzene ($C_6{H}_6$)
• D. Cyclobutadiene ($C_4{H}_4$)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key criteria for aromaticity according to Hückel's rule: the molecule must be cyclic, planar, fully conjugated (p orbitals overlapping continuously), and contain a total of \$4n + 2\( π electrons, where \)n$ is a non-negative integer (0, 1, 2, ...).
2. Determine the number of π electrons in each molecule by counting the electrons in the double bonds or lone pairs that contribute to the conjugated system. For example, each double bond contributes 2 π electrons.
3. Check the structure of each molecule to see if it is planar and cyclic with continuous overlap of p orbitals. For instance, cyclohexane is saturated (no double bonds) and not conjugated, so it is not aromatic.
4. Apply Hückel's formula \$4n + 2\( to the number of π electrons found in each molecule. Solve for \)n$ and check if it is a whole number. If yes, the molecule satisfies the electron count for aromaticity.
5. Combine all criteria: only molecules that are cyclic, planar, fully conjugated, and have \$4n + 2$ π electrons are aromatic. Identify which molecule(s) meet all these conditions.