**Introduction to Nitric Acid, Hydrogen Salt (Nitric Acid Hydrochloride)** Nitric acid, hydrogen salt, commonly known as nitrosyl chloride (NOCl), is a reactive chemical compound formed by combining nitric acid (HNO₃) and hydrogen chloride (HCl). This yellow to reddish-brown gas or liquid is highly corrosive and acts as a powerful oxidizing and chlorinating agent. It is widely used in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and rubber chemicals. Due to its reactivity, NOCl requires careful handling under controlled conditions. Its applications also extend to industrial processes, including metal refining and catalysis. Proper storage and safety measures are essential due to its toxic and hazardous nature.
Preparation Process: **Preparation of Nitric Acid (HNO₃):** 1. **Ostwald Process (Industrial Method):** - **Step 1:** Ammonia (NH₃) is oxidized with oxygen (O₂) over a platinum-rhodium catalyst at 800–900°C to form nitric oxide (NO). \[ 4NH₃ + 5O₂ → 4NO + 6H₂O \] - **Step 2:** Nitric oxide reacts with oxygen to form nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). \[ 2NO + O₂ → 2NO₂ \] - **Step 3:** NO₂ is absorbed in water to produce nitric acid (HNO₃) and regenerates NO. \[ 3NO₂ + H₂O → 2HNO₃ + NO \] 2. **Laboratory Method:** - Distill sodium nitrate (NaNO₃) or potassium nitrate (KNO₃) with concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). \[ NaNO₃ + H₂SO₄ → HNO₃ + NaHSO₄ \] **Hydrogen Salt (e.g., Sodium Hydrogen Sulfate, NaHSO₄):** - Formed as a byproduct in the lab method above or by partial neutralization of sulfuric acid with sodium hydroxide. \[ NaOH + H₂SO₄ → NaHSO₄ + H₂O \] (Word count: ~100)
Usage Scenarios: Nitric acid (HNO₃) is a highly corrosive mineral acid widely used in industries and laboratories. It is essential for producing fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate, and explosives like nitroglycerin and TNT. In metallurgy, it purifies and etches metals, including gold and platinum. It also synthesizes organic nitro compounds, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. In analytical chemistry, it acts as a strong oxidizing agent for digesting samples. Hydrogen salts of nitric acid (nitrates) are key in pyrotechnics, food preservation, and as oxidizers in rocket propellants. Additionally, nitric acid is used in wastewater treatment and semiconductor manufacturing for cleaning silicon wafers.