Question

Which of the following compounds is obtained when benzoic acid is treated with concentrated \(\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4\) and concentrated \(\text{HNO}_3\)?

• A. 2,4,6-Trinitrobenzoic acid
• B. o-Nitrobenzoic acid
• C. m-Nitrobenzoic acid
• D. p-Nitrobenzoic acid

Hint:

Electron-withdrawing groups generally direct incoming electrophiles to the meta position.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Identify the reaction type.
The given reaction is nitration, an electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction.
Step 2: Effect of substituent.
The \(-\text{COOH}\) group present in benzoic acid is a deactivating and meta-directing group.
Step 3: Orientation of substitution.
Due to the meta-directing nature of \(-\text{COOH}\), the nitro group enters the meta position.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, the product formed is m-nitrobenzoic acid.