Understand the Problem
The image appears to show a text related to a chemistry problem, possibly involving the reaction of a mixture including HNO3 and H2SO4. This seems to require understanding chemical reactions, roles of reactants, and possibly stoichiometry.
Answer
The nitration of benzene yields nitrobenzene via the reaction: $$ C_6H_6 + HNO_3 \xrightarrow{H_2SO_4} C_6H_5NO_2 + H_2O $$
Answer for screen readers
The reaction of benzene with HNO3 and H2SO4 forms nitrobenzene, with the overall reaction given by:
$$ C_6H_6 + HNO_3 \xrightarrow{H_2SO_4} C_6H_5NO_2 + H_2O $$
Steps to Solve
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Identify the Reactants and Their Roles We know nitrobenzene is formed when benzene reacts with nitric acid (HNO3) in the presence of sulfuric acid (H2SO4). H2SO4 acts as a catalyst.
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Role of H2SO4 and HNO3 HNO3 is a nitrating agent, while H2SO4 helps protonate HNO3 to generate the nitronium ion ($NO_2^+$), which is the active nitrating species.
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Write the Overall Reaction The reaction can be summarized as follows: $$ C_6H_6 + HNO_3 \xrightarrow{H_2SO_4} C_6H_5NO_2 + H_2O $$ Here, C6H6 represents benzene, and C6H5NO2 represents nitrobenzene.
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Consider the Acid-Base Interactions
- H2SO4 acts as an acid when it donates a proton to HNO3.
- H2O can act as a base in this system, accepting protons when necessary.
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Summarize the Acid-Base Roles
- H2SO4 is the acid in this context.
- H2O may act as a base, while HNO3 can also exhibit acidic behavior.
The reaction of benzene with HNO3 and H2SO4 forms nitrobenzene, with the overall reaction given by:
$$ C_6H_6 + HNO_3 \xrightarrow{H_2SO_4} C_6H_5NO_2 + H_2O $$
More Information
This reaction is an example of electrophilic aromatic substitution, where a hydrogen atom on the benzene ring is replaced by a nitro group ($-NO_2$). The presence of sulfuric acid enhances the formation of the nitronium ion, which is crucial for the nitration process.
Tips
- Confusing the roles of H2SO4 and HNO3: Both can act as acids, but H2SO4 is primarily the catalyst.
- Failing to recognize the importance of the nitronium ion ($NO_2^+$) in the nitration process.
- Neglecting the stoichiometry involved in reactions.
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