Role of HNO3 in nitration of benzene

[desmond iking]

Homework Statement

in this case, the HNO3 can be dissociated into NO2+ and OH- ion. what makes it a proton donor. p/s : the ans is HNO3 is a proton donor for this question.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

since the HNO3 can be dissociated into NO2+ and OH- ion, why it 's called as proton donor (acid), i would called it as alkaline... can someone explain on this plaese?

 

[Saitama]

Homework Statement

in this case, the HNO3 can be dissociated into NO2+ and OH- ion. what makes it a proton donor. p/s : the ans is HNO3 is a proton donor for this question.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

since the HNO3 can be dissociated into NO2+ and OH- ion, why it 's called as proton donor (acid), i would called it as alkaline... can someone explain on this plaese?

I do not see how $HNO_3$ could act as a proton donor when clearly a stronger acid is present.

 

[Borek]

You got the nitric acid dissociation into NO₂⁺ wrong - OH^- is not between products.

Hint: actually it is not HNO₃ that dissociates into NO₂⁺.

 

[Teemo]

Psst... hydroxide does not function well as a leaving group. So, why do you need the sulfuric acid for? Could it help create a good leaving group?