Nitric acid
HNO₃
Nitric acid is a strong acid with a chemical formula HNO3. It is a colorless liquid that is highly corrosive and reacts with a wide variety of substances. Nitric acid is an important compound used in various industries including chemical and pharmaceutical production, etching of metals, and production of fertilizers. It is also used in the manufacturing of explosives and dyes.
In its pure form, nitric acid is a highly reactive and unstable compound, therefore it is usually stored in a diluted form, typically at concentrations between 50-70%. The strength of nitric acid is denoted by its molarity, which is the number of moles of HNO3 per liter of solution. The concentration of nitric acid can be determined by titration, which involves the addition of a known quantity of a base, such as sodium hydroxide, to the acid until the reaction is complete.
Nitric acid can be produced through the oxidation of ammonia, which takes place in the Ostwald process. This process involves the use of a platinum-rhodium catalyst and a series of reactions that eventually result in the production of nitric acid. The production of nitric acid is a crucial step in the production of nitrogen-based fertilizers, which are essential for modern agriculture.
It is important to handle nitric acid with caution since it is a highly corrosive and toxic substance. Proper handling includes using personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats, and storing nitric acid in a cool area away from other substances that can react with it. Spills of nitric acid should be neutralized using a base such as calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate.
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