13dinitrobentene

1,3-Dinitrobenzene is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H4(NO2)2. It is a pale yellow crystalline solid at room temperature. It is one of three isomers of dinitrobenzene, the other two being 1,2-dinitrobenzene and 1,4-dinitrobenzene.

The synthesis of 1,3-dinitrobenzene is typically achieved through the nitration of nitrobenzene using a mixture of concentrated nitric acid and sulfuric acid. This electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction introduces a second nitro group onto the benzene ring, predominantly at the meta position due to the deactivating and meta-directing nature of the existing nitro group.

1,3-Dinitrobenzene is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and benzene. It is a relatively stable compound under normal conditions but can decompose explosively when heated strongly, especially when confined.

Historically, 1,3-dinitrobenzene has found limited applications, primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals, such as m-phenylenediamine, which is used in the production of dyes and polymers. It has also been investigated for its use in explosives, though it is not as commonly employed as other nitroaromatic compounds. Due to its toxicity, handling and use of 1,3-dinitrobenzene require appropriate safety precautions, including personal protective equipment and adequate ventilation. Exposure can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and methemoglobinemia.