Nitric Acid (HNO3) Overview:
Nitric acid is a highly corrosive mineral acid with the chemical formula HNO3. It is colorless when pure and is known for its strong oxidizing properties. Nitric acid plays a vital role in various industrial processes, laboratory applications, and as a reagent in chemical synthesis.
Key Characteristics:
- Highly corrosive mineral acid
- Colorless liquid with a sharp odor
- Strong oxidizing agent
Applications:
- Metal Etching: Nitric acid is used for etching and cleaning metals, such as stainless steel and aluminum, in various industrial processes.
- Fertilizer Production: It is a key ingredient in the production of ammonium nitrate, a widely used fertilizer.
- Explosives Manufacturing: Nitric acid is utilized in the production of explosives, such as TNT (trinitrotoluene) and nitroglycerin.
- Laboratory Reagent: It serves as a reagent in chemical analysis, organic synthesis, and as a nitrating agent.
- Pickling Agent: Nitric acid is used for pickling metals to remove scale, rust, and other impurities.
Hazards:
- Highly corrosive and strong oxidizing agent.
- Can cause severe burns upon contact with skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
- Inhalation of vapors may lead to respiratory irritation, coughing, and lung damage.
- Exposure to nitric acid fumes may result in pulmonary edema and systemic toxicity.
