Nitric acid 63

Nitric acid is a strong corrosive mineral acid that provides a nitro group during nitration and is also commonly used as an oxidizing agent. The 63% nitric acid solution is the most common concentration used in laboratories and industry.

Properties

• Chemical formula: HNO3
• Molar mass: 63.01 g/mol
• Appearance: Colorless or pale yellow liquid
• Boiling point: 82.5°C
• Freezing point: -42 °C
• Density: 1.41 g/cm³ Water solubility
• Solubility in water: Completely soluble
• pH: 0.3

Applications

Nitric acid is used in a wide variety of applications, including :

• Chemistry: Nitric acid is used in the synthesis of chemicals such as explosives, pesticides, dyes and medicines.
• Metallurgy: Nitric acid is used for cleaning and preparing metals.
• Pharmaceutical industry: Nitric acid is used to purify chemicals and medicines.
• Paper industry: Nitric acid is used in the production of white paper.
• Engineering: Nitric acid is used to clean machinery and equipment.

Precautions

Nitric acid is a corrosive and dangerous chemical. It can cause severe burns to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. It is important to wear gloves, goggles and a respirator when working with nitric acid.

When handling nitric acid, it is important to observe the following precautions:

Wear gloves, goggles and a respirator.Handle nitric acid in a well-ventilated area.Avoid contact with skin, eyes and respiratory tract.

If nitric acid comes into contact with skin, rinse immediately with running water for at least 15 minutes.If nitric acid gets into the eyes, rinse immediately with running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical advice.If nitric acid is inhaled, move away from the contaminated area and breathe fresh air.Storage

Nitric acid should be stored in a cool, dark place, out of direct sunlight. It should be stored in an airtight container to prevent contact with the air.