[1] It is a yellow crystalline solid that is important as a precursor to other compounds due to the two reactive sites present on the molecule.

Nitrochlorobenzene is typically synthesized by nitration of chlorobenzene in the presence of sulfuric acid: This reaction affords a mixture of isomers.

This reaction must be carried out with a sublimed[clarification needed] iron(III) catalyst at 33-45 °C.

Hydrolysis at the activated chlorine site of the 2- and 4-isomers (but not at the resistant 3-chlorine center) makes separation by physical means much less tedious.

Its derivative 3-chloroaniline, a useful compound sometimes referred to as Orange GC Base.