Nitric Acid
“Strong water”
HNO3
An off-white solid that is easily soluble in water or a colorless, odorless and somewhat viscous liquid. Old samples may show a yellowish color when they decompose in nitrogen oxides and water. Given its low boiling point (83º), nitric acid releases characteristic “fumes” when more concentrated.
Obtained from the catalytic oxidation of ammonia.
Used in the manufacture, on a large scale, of various chemical products, including petroleum specialties, as well as in the manufacture of ammonium and potassium nitrates, bases for fertilizers and explosives. It is also used to oxidize metals and to produce dyes and artificial fibers, such as nylon or terylene.
Industrial production is carried out by the so-called Ostwald process, actually invented by the French chemist Kuhlmann, in which ammonia is oxidized in the presence of a catalyst. But the first alchemists already knew and produced it; in the 17th century, Johann Rudolf Glauber established the first industrial manufacturing method, obtaining it by heating sulfuric acid with potassium nitrate.
In bulk.
