Answer & Solution
Here's why:
Benzene's Structure: Benzene (C6H6) is a ring-shaped molecule with alternating single and double bonds between the carbon atoms.
Understanding σ bonds: A sigma (σ) bond is a single bond. It's formed by the direct overlap of atomic orbitals.
In Benzene, each carbon atom is bonded to one hydrogen atom and two other carbon atoms with sigma bonds. Thus there are 6 C-H sigma bonds and 6 C-C sigma bonds.
So in total sigma bonds are 6+6=12.
Understanding π bonds: A pi (π) bond is part of a double or triple bond. It's formed by the sideways overlap of p orbitals.
The double bonds in benzene are made of one sigma (σ) bond and one pi (π) bond.
Benzene has three double bonds, therefore it has three π bonds.
Therefore: Benzene has 3 π bonds and 12 σ bonds.