What is the major product of the reaction of $1\text{-chloro-}2,4\text{-dinitrobenzene}$ with aqueous $\text{NaOH}$ at $350\text{ K}$?

Solution

1. The nitro groups at the ortho and para positions strongly activate the ring toward nucleophilic attack.
2. The hydroxide ion attacks the carbon bearing the chlorine atom to form a Meisenheimer complex.
3. The chloride ion is expelled as a leaving group to restore aromaticity.
4. The resulting product is 2,4-dinitrophenol.
5. Hence the answer is (C).