Question

Toluene reacts with mixed acid at 25°C to produce:

• A. Nearly equal amounts of o- and m-nitrotoluene
• B. p-Nitrotoluene (only)
• C. Predominantly o-nitrotoluene and p-nitrotoluene
• D. 2, 4, 6-Trinitrotoluene (only)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

At 25°C, nitration of toluene with a mixture of nitric acid and sulfuric acid (mixed acid) predominantly gives ortho- and para-nitrotoluene as the products.

The para isomer is the major product due to steric and electronic factors.

The methyl group on toluene is an activating group, which directs the nitro group to the ortho and para positions.