Two stock solutions of nitrobenzene 40 mM in THF and benzene were prepared in separate vials. 80mM stock solutions of the different bases employed were also prepared in THF and benzene, except for t BuLi 1.7 M in pentane, LDA 1.0 M in THF, LiO t Bu 1.0 M in THF and LiHMDS 1.0 M in THF. 100 µL from the nitrobenzene stock solutions (4x10 -6 moles) were added to each base solution containing either a 1:1 or 1:5 molar ration. Immediately upon addition, we observe the solution turning from pale yellow to deep red or purples colours.