Question

Why is the nitration of aromatic rings a useful reaction?

Answer 1

Because it introduces a nitro group or groups onto an aromatic ring; the nitro group can be further elaborated.

Explanation:

Nitration of the aromatic ring is a fairly easy way to introduce functionality onto a phenyl ring, even though it uses very harsh electrophilic reagents (`HNO_3, H_2SO_4`).

Once the nitro group is attached, it can be reduced to amines. Acetoaminophen, paracetamol, `p-HO(C_6H_4)NHC(=O)CH_3` is a widely used analgesic (which we have all used), and nitrobenzene is used as the starting chemical in its industrial synthesis.