Aromatic amines react with nitrous acid at low temperatures to form diazonium salts, a crucial class of compounds employed in the synthesis of various aromatic compounds. Secondary and tertiary amines exhibit different reactions with nitrous acid.
Describe the reaction of aromatic amines with nitrous acid, emphasizing its importance in the synthesis of aromatic compounds.
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Aromatic amines react with nitrous acid (HNO₂) in a diazotization reaction, forming diazonium salts. This reaction involves the replacement of the amino group (-NH₂) with a diazo group (-N₂⁺) on the aromatic ring. The diazonium salt is a versatile intermediate used in the synthesis of various aromatic compounds. It undergoes coupling reactions with phenols, aromatic amines, and other nucleophiles, leading to the formation of azo dyes, aromatic heterocycles, and substituted aromatic compounds. The diazotization reaction is crucial in organic synthesis, providing a pathway to diversify and functionalize aromatic compounds for applications in dyes, pharmaceuticals, and materials.