Chemistry - Preparation of picric acid

The benzene ring in phenol is highly activated toward electrophilic substitution and hence attempts to directly nitrate it result in charring and copious evolution of oxides of nitrogen. The reaction is highly exothermic and difficult to control.

To reduce the reactivity, the phenol is first mono-sulfonated ( some of the product which is substituted may also be used). The products are ortho- and para-isomers. The para-isomer is separated and then nitrated. The nitration is comparatively far smoother (easier to handle).
Ipso substitution of $\ce{SO3}$ groups occur.

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Links: Wikipedia, Research paper

Link: (For ipso substitution): PDF, Wikipedia (see subsection: Ipso substitution)