Nitric Acid – A Versatile Organic Compound
Nitric acid is an inorganic compound with the formula HNO3. It is a highly corrosive mineral acid.[6] The compound is colorless, but samples tend to acquire a yellow cast over time due to decomposition into oxides of nitrogen. Most commercially available nitric acid has a concentration of 68% in water. When the solution contains more than 86% HNO3, it is referred to as fuming nitric acid. Depending on the amount of nitrogen dioxide present, fuming nitric acid is further characterized as red fuming nitric acid at concentrations above 86%, or white fuming nitric acid at concentrations above 95%.
Properties: Physical properties
- Appearance: Colorless to yellowish liquid that fumes
- Odor: Pungent and acrid
- Density: 1.513 g/cm3 at 20°C
- Boiling point: 181°F (83°C)
- Melting point -44°F (-42°C)
Industrial uses
- Fertilizer production: A key component of fertilizers like ammonium nitrate and calcium nitrate
- Explosives: Used to make explosives like TNT and nitroglycerin
- Metal processing: Used to clean, etch, and plate metal surfaces
- Rocket fuels: A major component of some rocket fuels
- Pharmaceuticals: Used to make drugs and performance products
- Dyes: Used to make dyes, lacquers, and organic nitrogen compounds
- Synthetic fibers: Used to make nylon and other synthetic fibers
Conclusion
Nitric Acid is an essential organic compound with diverse applications in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and chemical processing. While it is widely used and beneficial, it must be handled with proper safety measures due to its corrosive nature. Proper storage, careful handling, and adherence to safety guidelines ensure its effective and safe usage in various industrial and household applications.