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 and sulfuric acid, 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 the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, explosives, and dyes. The position of the nitro group on the aromatic ring can vary, leading to different products, which is influenced by the existing substituents on the ring.