10 Important Uses of Nitric Acid (HNO3) in Industry and Daily Life
Nitric acid uses are an important chemistry topic that help students connect science to the real world. From fertilizers and explosives to laboratory cleaning and waste treatment, nitric acid is a key chemical that appears in daily life, industry, and science experiments. Learning about its uses and safety is essential for every chemistry learner.
What is Nitric Acid in Chemistry?
- Nitric acid is a strong, inorganic mineral acid with the chemical formula HNO3.
- This compound is colorless, highly corrosive, and acts as a powerful oxidizing agent.
- Nitric acid is studied in chapters on acids and bases, industrial chemistry, and environmental science, making it a core part of your chemistry syllabus.
Molecular Formula and Composition
The molecular formula of nitric acid is HNO3. It consists of one nitrogen atom bonded to three oxygen atoms and one hydrogen atom. It belongs to the mineral acid class and is also known as aqua fortis.
Preparation and Synthesis Methods
- Industrially, nitric acid is prepared mainly by the Ostwald process using ammonia (NH3), oxygen, and water.
- This involves three steps: catalytic oxidation of ammonia to nitric oxide, oxidation to nitrogen dioxide, and absorption in water to form HNO3.
- In laboratories, nitric acid can be made by heating potassium nitrate (KNO3) with concentrated sulfuric acid.
Physical Properties of Nitric Acid
Nitric acid is a colorless, fuming liquid with a pungent odor. It is heavier than water, with a density of about 1.51 g/cm3. Its boiling point is 83 °C, and it freezes at around -42 °C. Nitric acid is very soluble in water and is a strong acid that completely dissociates in aqueous solutions.
Chemical Properties and Reactions
- Nitric acid is a strong acid and an oxidizing agent. It reacts with metals to form nitrates and releases gases like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) or nitric oxide (NO).
- With organic compounds, it causes nitration reactions, making it essential for dye and explosive manufacturing.
- Dilute and concentrated nitric acid show different products during redox reactions.
Frequent Related Errors
- Confusing nitric acid with other acids such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid.
- Assuming nitric acid can be used directly in food or medicine, which is unsafe.
- Ignoring the dangerous effects of its fumes and underestimating its corrosive power.
Uses of Nitric Acid in Real Life
- Nitric acid uses extend from manufacturing fertilizers to making explosives, cleaning jewelry, and treating wastewater.
- In laboratories, it is used to prepare other chemicals, clean glassware, and perform qualitative tests.
- Nitric acid is not used directly in food or medicine but is critical for making products that help improve modern life.
| S.No. | Top 10 Uses of Nitric Acid |
|---|---|
| 1 | Production of fertilizers like ammonium nitrate for agriculture |
| 2 | Manufacture of explosives such as TNT and nitroglycerin |
| 3 | Metal cleaning and etching, especially for gold and silver |
| 4 | As an oxidizer in liquid rocket fuels |
| 5 | Laboratory reagent for testing, cleaning, and analysis |
| 6 | Production of dyes and pigments through nitration reactions |
| 7 | Preparation of nitro compounds and specialty chemicals |
| 8 | Sterilization and cleaning in some industrial processes |
| 9 | Treatment of wastewater and neutralization of pollutants |
| 10 | Used in the brown ring test to detect nitrate ions in solution |
Relation with Other Chemistry Concepts
Nitric acid is connected to concepts like acids’ properties and nitration reactions. It is also compared with other mineral acids like sulfuric acid. Understanding nitric acid helps you learn how acids work in chemical reactions and manufacturing.
Step-by-Step Reaction Example
1. Preparation of ammonium nitrate fertilizer using nitric acid:2. Mix ammonia gas (NH3) with nitric acid (HNO3):
NH3 (aq) + HNO3 (aq) → NH4NO3 (aq)
3. The solution is evaporated or crystallized to collect solid ammonium nitrate.
4. Reaction conditions: Use dilute acid and controlled addition to prevent overheating.
Lab or Experimental Tips
When using nitric acid in the lab, always add acid to water, never the reverse, to avoid splashing and heat. Wear gloves and goggles, and work in a fume hood. Vedantu teachers recommend labeling acid bottles clearly and storing away from base chemicals for safety.
Try This Yourself
- Write the balanced equation for the reaction of HNO3 with copper metal.
- Is nitric acid found in food? Why or why not?
- List three industries that depend on nitric acid for their key products.
Final Wrap-Up
We explored nitric acid—its formula, major uses, chemical and physical properties, and step-by-step examples in chemistry. Nitric acid uses are broad, from fertilizers to explosives. For more detailed lessons with chemistry experts, check out live classes, sample papers, and revision notes from Vedantu online.
FAQs on Nitric Acid Uses in Chemistry: Applications, Examples & Safety
1. What are the top 10 uses of nitric acid?
Nitric acid is widely used in industry, laboratory, and daily life. The top 10 uses of nitric acid include:
- Production of fertilizers (ammonium nitrate)
- Manufacturing explosives (e.g., TNT)
- Making dyes and pigments
- Etching and cleaning metals
- Preparation of nitro compounds
- Rocket propellant manufacture
- Pharmaceutical synthesis
- Laboratory reagent for analysis
- Wastewater treatment
- Plastic and polymer manufacturing
2. Is nitric acid harmful to humans?
Nitric acid is harmful to humans. It is a strong corrosive acid that can cause severe burns and health hazards.
- Skin or eye contact: Causes burns and irritation
- Inhalation: Fumes can damage the respiratory system
- Ingestion: Extremely dangerous, never ingest nitric acid
- Always use safety equipment like gloves and goggles when handling nitric acid
3. Can nitric acid be found in the human body?
Pure nitric acid is not present in the human body. However, the body produces nitric oxide, a related compound.
- Nitric oxide (NO) helps in blood vessel dilation
- Nitric acid is never used directly in the body
- Safe handling and proper usage are essential
4. How is nitric acid used in the food industry?
Nitric acid is not used directly as a food additive, but it is used in the manufacture of food-grade nitrates for preserving meats and in analytical food testing.
- Production of sodium and potassium nitrate for curing foods
- Quality testing of food samples in labs
- Never added directly to food for consumption
5. What precautions should be taken while handling nitric acid?
Always follow safety precautions when handling nitric acid.
- Wear protective gloves, goggles, and lab coat
- Work in a well-ventilated area or fume hood
- Store in a tightly sealed, labeled container away from bases and organic materials
- In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical help
6. What is the chemical formula of nitric acid?
The chemical formula of nitric acid is HNO3. It consists of one hydrogen atom, one nitrogen atom, and three oxygen atoms.
7. Why is nitric acid used in the manufacture of fertilizers?
Nitric acid is essential for fertilizer production because it reacts with ammonia to form ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3).
- Ammonium nitrate is a widely used nitrogen-rich fertilizer
- It supports plant growth and increases soil fertility
8. Can nitric acid be used for cleaning metals?
Yes, nitric acid is commonly used for cleaning and etching metals.
- Removes rust and impurities from metal surfaces
- Used in purification and refining of metals like gold and silver
- Essential in preparation for metal plating
9. What happens if you mix nitric acid with other chemicals?
Mixing nitric acid with certain chemicals can cause dangerous reactions.
- Combining with organic substances can result in fire or explosion
- With hydrochloric acid, it forms aqua regia, which can dissolve gold
- Always mix acids slowly and with proper precautions
10. What is the difference between concentrated and dilute nitric acid?
Concentrated nitric acid contains a high percentage of HNO3 and is extremely corrosive, while dilute nitric acid has more water and is less reactive.
- Concentrated is used for nitration, explosives, and etching
- Dilute is used for laboratory analysis and preparing nitrate salts
- Different applications depend on concentration and safety requirements
11. Can nitric acid react with glass or plastic containers?
Nitric acid can slowly react with certain plastics and metals, but it is generally safe in glass containers.
- Store in glass or special acid-resistant plastic bottles
- Avoid storing in metal containers, as it can cause corrosion
- Certain plastics like polyethylene are acceptable for temporary storage
12. Does nitric acid play a role in environmental chemistry?
Yes, nitric acid is important in environmental chemistry.
- It is used for treatment of industrial wastewater
- Helps in removal of toxic metals and pollutants
- Plays a role in acid rain formation through atmospheric reactions
