Question detail
Describe the mechanism of nitration of benzene, including the role of the electrophile.
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At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Aromatic chemistry (A-level only)
Question
Describe the mechanism of nitration of benzene, including the role of the electrophile.
Answer
In the nitration of benzene, the electrophile is the nitronium ion (NO2+), generated from concentrated nitric acid and concentrated sulfuric acid. The benzene ring donates a pair of electrons to the nitronium ion, forming a sigma complex. This complex then loses a proton to regenerate the aromatic system, resulting in nitrobenzene.
Explanation
This answer is strong because it clearly outlines the electrophilic substitution mechanism, identifying the electrophile and the steps involved. The question tests understanding of aromatic chemistry and the specific reaction of nitration.
Common mistake
Nitration Reaction Misunderstanding
Students often confuse the nitration of benzene with a simple addition reaction, thinking that the nitro group is added directly to the benzene ring.
Remember that nitration is an electrophilic substitution reaction. The formula for the reaction is C6H6 + HNO3 → C6H5NO2 + H2O. Substitute the reactants into the equation to show that the benzene ring retains its structure while substituting a hydrogen atom for a nitro group.
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