One of the hydrogen atoms on the benzene ring can be replaced by a nitro- group (NO2).
A nitrating mixture is prepared in a round-bottomed flask by mixing concentrated sulfuric acid and concentrated nitric acid carefully.
The mixture needs to be cooled in a beaker of cold water.
Benzene is added carefully to the nitrating mixture making sure the temperature is kept below 50°C.
A reflux condenser is added and the mixture heated in a water bath of 50°C until nitrobenzene - a pale yellow liquid - is formed.
If the reaction takes place at a higher temperature, further substitution to form dinitrobenzene or trinitrobenzene may occur.
Nitration of Benzene:
A nitrating mixture is prepared in a round-bottomed flask by mixing concentrated sulfuric acid and concentrated nitric acid carefully.
The mixture needs to be cooled in a beaker of cold water.
Benzene is added carefully to the nitrating mixture making sure the temperature is kept below 50°C.
A reflux condenser is added and the mixture heated in a water bath of 50°C until nitrobenzene - a pale yellow liquid - is formed.
If the reaction takes place at a higher temperature, further substitution to form dinitrobenzene or trinitrobenzene may occur.
Nitration of Benzene: