During nitration of benzene, nitric acid functions as a base and accepts a proton from sulfuric acid.Select answer from the options belowTrueFalse

Step 1: Analyze the Statement

The statement in question is whether nitric acid acts as a base by accepting a proton from sulfuric acid during the nitration of benzene.

Step 2: Relevant Concepts

1. Nitration of Benzene: This is an electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction where a nitro group is introduced to benzene.
2. Role of Acids: In this reaction, sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) acts as a dehydrating agent and protonates nitric acid (HNO₃). The nitric acid then generates the nitronium ion (NO₂⁺), which is the electrophile.

Step 3: Analysis of the Chemical Reaction

In the context of this reaction:

• Sulfuric acid does donate a proton to nitric acid to form nitronium ions, which are crucial for nitration.
• Here, nitric acid does not function as a base; rather, sulfuric acid is stronger and plays the role of an acid in this context.

Step 4: Verify and Summarize

Given the definition of acids and bases, and the roles of nitric and sulfuric acids in the nitration process, the statement is incorrect. Nitric acid does not accept a proton from sulfuric acid; instead, it is protonated by sulfuric acid.

Final Answer

False. Nitric acid does not function as a base in this context; sulfuric acid donates a proton to nitric acid.