It is a derivative of ammonia in which one hydrogen atom is replaced by the phenyl group. It is manufactured by the reduction of nitrobenzene with iron filings and either hydrochloric acid or ferrous chloride, and subsequent steam distillation after the addition of lime.
Aniline is an oily, colorless, toxic liquid, which darkens upon exposure to air.
It is soluble in water, alcohol, and ether, and forms a number of salts.