Nitration
| Formula / Notation | ArH + HNO₃/H₂SO₄ → Ar-NO₂ + H₂O; electrophilic aromatic substitution |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Nitro group introduction, aromatic nitration, mixed acid nitration |
What is Nitration?
An electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction in which a nitro group (-NO₂) is introduced into an aromatic ring using a nitrating mixture (concentrated HNO₃ and H₂SO₄). The sulfuric acid generates the electrophilic nitronium ion (NO₂⁺). Used in synthesis of explosives and pharmaceuticals.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Nitro group introduction, aromatic nitration, mixed acid nitration
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
An electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction in which a nitro group (-NO₂) is introduced into an aromatic ring using a nitrating mixture (concentrated HNO₃ and H₂SO₄). The sulfuric acid generates the electrophilic nitronium ion (NO₂⁺). Used in synthesis of explosives and pharmaceuticals.
Nitration is used to produce: nitrobenzene (for aniline and polyurethane production), nitrotoluene (for TNT and dyes), nitroglycerin (explosive/drug), nitrocellulose (gun cotton, lacquers), mononitrotoluene (MNT, precursor to dyes), and to introduce a synthetic handle for reduction to amino groups i…
Nitration reactions are highly exothermic and can become uncontrolled (runaway nitration) if temperature control fails, resulting in detonation. Nitrated products include explosives (TNT, nitroglycerin, PETN) that are shock-sensitive and thermally unstable. Concentrated H₂SO₄ and HNO₃ are severely c…
The formula or notation for Nitration is: ArH + HNO₃/H₂SO₄ → Ar-NO₂ + H₂O; electrophilic aromatic substitution