Question:

In the following reaction the reason why meta-nitro product also formed is : 

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To obtain only ortho/para products from aniline, you must first "protect" the amino group by acetylation (forming acetanilide) before nitration.
Updated On: Feb 3, 2026
  • $-NH_2$ group is highly meta-directive
  • $-NO_2$ substitution always takes place at meta-position
  • Formation of anilinium ion
  • low temperature
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Nitration uses a mixture of conc. $H_2SO_4$ and conc. $HNO_3$.
Step 2: In this strongly acidic medium, the basic aniline ($Ph-NH_2$) gets protonated to form the anilinium ion ($Ph-NH_3^+$).
Step 3: The $-NH_3^+$ group is electron-withdrawing and strongly meta-directing.
Step 4: This leads to the formation of nearly 47% meta-nitroaniline.
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