Question

Draw resonance structures to show in which position nitrobenzene will nitrate to form dinitrobenzene.

Step-by-step solution
Step 1/4
In concentrated acid, the nitro group becomes protonated.

Answer 1

Step 2/4

The positively charged nitronium ion (NO2+) is formed by the reaction between nitric acid and sulfuric acid.

Step 3/4

The nitronium ion then attacks the benzene ring and replaces a hydrogen atom on the ring.

Step 4/4

The resulting intermediate can then resonate, leading to the formation of the ortho and para isomers of dinitrobenzene.