What is the role of sulfuric acid in the nitration of benzene?

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Q: What is the role of sulfuric acid in the nitration of benzene?

Solution: Sulfuric acid acts as a catalyst in the nitration of benzene, facilitating the generation of the nitronium ion (NO2+) from nitric acid.

Steps: 5

Step 1: Understand that nitration is a chemical reaction where a nitro group (NO2) is added to benzene.
Step 2: Know that sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is used in this reaction.
Step 3: Recognize that sulfuric acid helps to produce the nitronium ion (NO2+), which is the active species that reacts with benzene.
Step 4: Learn that sulfuric acid does this by reacting with nitric acid (HNO3) to generate the nitronium ion.
Step 5: Conclude that sulfuric acid is a catalyst because it speeds up the reaction without being consumed in the process.