Question

Benzene reacts with nitric acid in the presence of concentrated sulphuric acid to form

• A. Nitrobenzene
• B. Phenol
• C. Toluene
• D. Benzoic acid

Hint:

The nitration of benzene is a key step in making explosives like TNT (trinitrotoluene).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The reaction of benzene with concentrated nitric acid in the presence of concentrated sulphuric acid is called nitration of benzene.
H$_2$SO$_4$ acts as a catalyst and generates the nitronium ion (NO$_2^+$).
Benzene reacts with NO$_2^+$ to form nitrobenzene.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
This is an electrophilic substitution reaction. Benzene’s hydrogen atom is replaced by a nitro group (-NO$_2$), giving nitrobenzene as the main product.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The product of the reaction is Nitrobenzene.