Nitric Acid
Nitric acid is a strong mineral acid with the chemical formula HNO3. It is a colorless liquid that is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns. Nitric acid is commonly used in the production of fertilizers, explosives, and in various industrial processes.
Properties of Nitric Acid
Below are some important properties of nitric acid:
- Chemical Formula: HNO3
- Molar Mass: 63.01 g/mol
- Appearance: Colorless liquid
- Odor: Pungent and suffocating
- Solubility: Miscible with water
- Corrosive: Can cause severe burns
Uses of Nitric Acid
Nitric acid has several important industrial and laboratory uses, including:
- Production of fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate
- Manufacturing of explosives, like nitroglycerin and TNT
- Etching and cleaning metals
- Production of nylon
- As a reagent in various chemical reactions
Chemical Reactions Involving Nitric Acid
Nitric acid can undergo various chemical reactions, including:
- Dissociation: In water, nitric acid dissociates into hydronium ions (H3O+) and nitrate ions (NO3-).
- Nitration: Nitric acid is used in the nitration of organic compounds, where it introduces a nitro group (-NO2) into the molecule.
- Reduction: Nitric acid can be reduced to produce nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and other nitrogen oxides.
Safety Precautions
When handling nitric acid, it is important to observe proper safety precautions, including:
- Wearing protective clothing, gloves, and goggles
- Avoiding inhalation of fumes
- Working in a well-ventilated area
- Using nitric acid in a fume hood if possible
- Having access to an eyewash station and safety shower
Study Tips
To effectively study nitric acid, consider the following tips:
- Understand the chemical properties and reactions of nitric acid
- Practice writing and balancing chemical equations involving nitric acid
- Review the industrial uses and safety considerations associated with nitric acid
- Use flashcards to memorize important facts and properties
- Seek clarification from your instructor or tutor on any challenging concepts
◂Physics Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Laws of Motion - Set I
Worksheet/Answer key
Laws of Motion - Set I 
Worksheet/Answer key
Laws of Motion - Set I Worksheet/Answer key
Laws of Motion - Set I Worksheet/Answer key
Laws of Motion - Set I
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
PHYSICAL SCIENCE (NGSS)
Energy
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Develop and use models to illustrate that energy at the macroscopic scale can be accounted for as either motions of particles or energy stored in fields.