In the nitration of toluene, what is the major product formed?

In the nitration of toluene, what is the major product formed?

Step 1: Understand that toluene is a benzene ring with a methyl group (CH3) attached to it.
Step 2: Know that nitration involves adding a nitro group (NO2) to the benzene ring.
Step 3: Recognize that there are two possible positions for the nitro group to attach: the ortho position (next to the methyl group) and the para position (across from the methyl group).
Step 4: Consider steric hindrance, which means that the size of the methyl group makes it harder for the nitro group to attach at the ortho position.
Step 5: Conclude that because of steric hindrance, the nitro group is more likely to attach at the para position.
Step 6: Therefore, the major product formed in the nitration of toluene is para-nitrotoluene.

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