Nitric acid
Molar mass: 63.01 g/mol · Class: Strong acid and oxidizer
Elements: hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen
Structure
The molecule has nitrogen bonded to three oxygens in a flat, triangular arrangement, with one oxygen carrying the hydrogen. It ionizes completely in water to give H+ and nitrate ions.
Properties
Strong acid that ionizes completely in water
Strong oxidizing agent, especially when concentrated
Turns yellow in light as it decomposes to nitrogen dioxide
Passivates aluminium and chromium with a protective oxide layer
Applications
Fertilizer production (ammonium nitrate)
Manufacture of explosives and nylon
Metal etching and cleaning
Laboratory nitration reactions
Corrosive and a strong oxidizer: burns skin and can ignite organic materials on contact. Toxic brown fumes (nitrogen dioxide) form on decomposition. Use only with ventilation, goggles, and gloves; never handle without training.
Data source: IUPAC standard atomic weights 2021; molar mass computed from HNO3