Question

$C_6{H}_{5}N{O}_2\stackrel{X}{\to }{C}_6{H}_{5}N{H}_2$
For the reaction given above, $X$ can be:

• A. $Zn+HCl$
• B. $SnC{l}_2+HCl$
• C. $Zn/alc.KOH$
• D. $Ni/H_2$

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (D)

$Zn+HCl$
$Ni/H_2$
$SnC{l}_2+HCl$

In alkaline medium, nitrobenzene on reduction will give nitrosobenzene and phenylhydroxylamine. These compounds will give further reactions to form aniline. However, aniline is not formed in alkaline medium.
Hence, $Zn/alc.KOH$ is not a correct answer.
Reducing agents such as $Zn$ and $SnC{l}_2$ can be used in acidic medium. Catalytic hydrogenation can also be used to reduce nitrobenzene to aniline.