Question

In the nitration of benzene using a mixture of conc. H₂SO₄ and conc. HNO₃, the nitrating species is:

• A. NO₂⁺
• B. NO₂²⁻
• C. NO⁺
• D. NO₂ and NO²⁺

Hint:

In nitration, the combination of H₂SO₄ and HNO₃ produces NO₂⁺, which attacks the benzene ring.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the process of nitration, concentrated nitric acid (HNO₃) reacts with sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) to generate the nitronium ion (NO₂⁺). This ion serves as the primary electrophile in nitration reactions.
Step 1: Electrophile Identification.
The nitronium ion (NO₂⁺) is the electrophile involved in the nitration of benzene, formed from the interaction of nitric acid and sulfuric acid.
Step 2: Determination.
Therefore, the species responsible for nitration is NO₂⁺.
Final Answer: \[\boxed{\text{The nitrating species is NO₂⁺.}}\]