Here's why:
* It's a neutral molecule: The lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom can accept a proton (H+), making it a base. However, it's not strong enough to completely dissociate in water like a strong base.
* It forms a cation when protonated: When aniline reacts with an acid, it accepts a proton and forms the anilinium ion (C6H5NH3+). This is the cation form of aniline.
So, aniline itself doesn't have a cation or anion in its neutral form. It forms the cation (anilinium ion) upon protonation.
