2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (a.k.a. TNT) is used as an explosive. It is produced from toluene (C6H5CH3). (see below)

Question

What reagent(s) and reaction conditiions are needed to vonvert toluene into 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene. I need an answer by 11:30 tonight if possible. The answer has to be a well developed paragraph.

11:30 tonight as of 11-22-06.

Answer 1

One needs toluene and concentrated nitric and sulfuric acids, plus "fuming" sulfuric acid (H2SO4 + SO3). As the reaction proceeds, the first nitro groups usually go on either in the position next to the -CH3 (2-, ortho) or diametrically opposite (4-, para). All three mostly end up in the 2-, 4-, and 6-positions. The operator nitrates in three stages, with the temperature raised gradually during the three stages from 35degC to 110degC. However, there is also formation of small amounts of the 2,3,4- and 2,4,5-trinitro compounds. These unsymmetrical isomers make the product dangerously shock-sensitive to handle. The crude product is therefore stirred with 15% aqueous sodium sulfite solution at 100degC. This treatment converts the two impurities to sulfonic acids, which are water soluble and poured away from the oily product in the water.

Answer 2

First, can't you do your own homework?

Second, TNT is really hard to make. As far as I know, you have to heat toluene up in nitric acid. However, with the addition of each nitro group, the next one is harder to put on. If you don't understand why, you should change your major. Study!

Answer 3

Call this number
[phone]
The chemists here will help you with everything

Answer 4

I'd have to go with GK on that one.
Those chemists there're reeeeeeeeeeal smart.

Answer 5

Plus, if you're careless with the temperature...boom!

It's what makes chemistry soooooooo coooooool!!!!!