nitric acid

What is nitric acid

Nitric acid (HNO₃) is a highly corrosive and versatile inorganic acid widely used in various industrial and laboratory applications. It is a colorless to yellowish liquid with a pungent odor and is a key chemical in the production of fertilizers, explosives, and dyes. Nitric acid is a strong oxidizing agent, capable of reacting with metals, organic compounds, and other substances, making it essential in chemical synthesis and metal processing. It is also used in the manufacture of plastics, pharmaceuticals, and rocket propellants. Due to its reactivity and potential hazards, proper handling and safety precautions are critical when working with nitric acid. Its importance in modern industry underscores its role as a foundational chemical.

Preparation Process: Nitric acid (HNO₃) is prepared industrially via the Ostwald process. First, ammonia (NH₃) is oxidized with oxygen (O₂) over a platinum-rhodium catalyst at 850–900°C to form nitric oxide (NO). The NO is cooled and further oxidized to nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in the presence of excess air. The NO₂ is then absorbed in water, where it reacts to form nitric acid and more NO, which is recycled. The reaction is exothermic and yields a 60–70% HNO₃ solution, which can be concentrated by distillation with sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) to produce fuming nitric acid (98%). Laboratory methods include reacting potassium nitrate (KNO₃) with concentrated sulfuric acid under heat.

Usage Scenarios: Nitric acid (HNO₃) is a highly corrosive and versatile compound used in various industrial and laboratory applications. It is primarily employed in the production of fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate, which enhances crop yields. In the chemical industry, it serves as a key reagent for manufacturing explosives like TNT and nitroglycerin. Nitric acid is also used in metal processing, particularly for etching and purifying metals, including gold and platinum. Additionally, it plays a role in producing dyes, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. In laboratories, it is utilized for digesting organic samples and analyzing trace metals. Its oxidizing properties make it valuable in rocket propellants and cleaning agents.

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