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

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

  1. Formation of anilinium ion
  2. -NH2 group is highly meta-directive
  3. -NO2 substitution always takes place at meta-position
  4. low temperature

Solution

Aniline on protonation gives anilinium ion which is meta directing. So considerable amount of meta product is formed.

Direct nitration of aniline yields tarry oxidation products in addition to the nitro derivatives. Moreover, in the strongly acidic medium, aniline is protonated to form the anilinium ion which is meta directing. That is why besides the ortho and para derivatives, significant amount of meta derivative is also formed.

Asked in: JEE Main 2021 (24 Feb Shift 1)

Practice more Hydrocarbons questions on Aicharya