C7H6N2O4

C7H6N2O4 is the molecular formula for nitrobenzoic acid. There are three isomers of nitrobenzoic acid, distinguished by the position of the nitro group relative to the carboxyl group on the benzene ring: ortho-nitrobenzoic acid, meta-nitrobenzoic acid, and para-nitrobenzoic acid. Each isomer has the same chemical formula but differs in the arrangement of atoms, leading to slightly different physical and chemical properties.

Ortho-nitrobenzoic acid (2-nitrobenzoic acid) is a solid at room temperature and can be synthesized through various methods, including the oxidation of 2-nitrotoluene or the nitration of benzoic acid. Meta-nitrobenzoic acid (3-nitrobenzoic acid) is also a solid and is commonly produced by the nitration of benzoic acid under specific conditions that favor meta-substitution. Para-nitrobenzoic acid (4-nitrobenzoic acid) is another solid isomer, often prepared via the oxidation of 4-nitrotoluene.

These compounds find applications as intermediates in the synthesis of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and other organic chemicals. Their reactivity is influenced by the presence of both the electron-withdrawing nitro group and the electron-withdrawing carboxyl group on the benzene ring. The specific isomer used depends on the desired end product and reaction pathway.