Question

In an acidic medium, which one behaves as the strongest base
1. Nitrobenzene
2. Aniline
3. Phenol

Answer 1

Nitrobenzene is strongest acid due to -M effect of nitro group and Phenol is also acidic in nature due to stability of phenolate ion. Aniline is the strongest base among these because N is less electronegative than O and so it is a better electron donor.

Hence, the correct answer is 2.