Nitration is a chemical process that introduces a nitro group (-NO2) into an organic compound, typically an aromatic compound like benzene. This reaction is commonly achieved using a mixture of concentrated nitric acid (HNO3) and concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which generates the nitronium ion (NO2+), the active nitrating agent. The nitration process is important in organic chemistry as it modifies the properties of the original compound, allowing for further chemical reactions. It is widely used in the production of explosives, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, making it a key step in the synthesis of various industrial chemicals.