Delocalized electron
electron in a molecule not associated with a single atom or covalent bond
In chemistry, delocalized electrons are electrons in a molecule, ion or solid metal that are not associated with a single atom or a covalent bond.
The term delocalization is general and can have slightly different meanings in different fields:
In organic chemistry, it refers to resonance in conjugated systems and aromatic compounds.
In solid-state physics, it refers to free electrons that facilitate electrical conduction.
In quantum chemistry, it refers to molecular orbital electrons that have extended over several adjacent atoms.
Resonance
In the simple aromatic ring of benzene, the delocalization of six π electrons over the C6 ring is often graphically indicated by a circle. The fact that the six C-C bonds are equidistant is one indication that the electrons are delocalized; if the structure were to have isolated double bonds alternating with discrete single bonds, the bond would likewise have alternating longer and shorter lengths. In valence bond theory, delocalization in benzene is represented by resonance structures.
Electrical conduction
Delocalized electrons also exist in the structure of solid metals. Metallic structure consists of aligned positive ions (cations) in a "sea" of delocalized electrons. This means that the electrons are free to move throughout the structure, and gives rise to properties such as conductivity.
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