Litrites

Litrites are a class of organic compounds characterized by the presence of a nitro group (NO2) directly attached to an aromatic ring. They are also known as nitroaromatic compounds. The nitro group is a strongly electron-withdrawing substituent, which significantly influences the chemical and physical properties of the aromatic system. This electron-withdrawing nature can make the aromatic ring less reactive towards electrophilic substitution but more susceptible to nucleophilic aromatic substitution under certain conditions.

Litrites are often colored, with many appearing yellow. This color is due to the delocalization of electrons within the molecule, particularly involving the nitro group and the aromatic pi system. They are widely used as intermediates in the synthesis of many organic chemicals, including dyes, pharmaceuticals, and explosives. The reduction of the nitro group is a common synthetic transformation, leading to the formation of an amino group, which is a key step in the production of many aniline derivatives.

Examples of common litrites include nitrobenzene, nitrotoluene, and picric acid. Nitrobenzene, for instance, is a precursor to aniline, a vital building block for polyurethanes and dyes. The synthesis of litrites typically involves the nitration of aromatic compounds using a mixture of nitric acid and sulfuric acid. The conditions of this reaction, such as temperature and concentration, can influence the number and position of nitro groups introduced onto the aromatic ring.