How is 4-Ethoxy-3-nitrobenzoic acid (CAS: 59719-77-6) typically synthesized?

4-Ethoxy-3-nitrobenzoic acid can be synthesized by the nitration of 4-ethoxybenzoic acid followed by hydrolysis. Commonly, this involves reacting 4-ethoxybenzoic acid with a nitration mixture of concentrated sulfuric acid and fuming nitric acid. The reaction is typically carried out in an ice bath to control the temperature, and the yield can be up to 75%. This process requires strict monitoring to ensure selectivity and safety.