Detailed Summary
In this section, we explore the chemical properties of nitric acid (HNO₃), a vital compound in various industrial and laboratory applications. The primary chemical properties discussed are:
- Acidity: Nitric acid is categorized as a strong acid, capable of turning blue litmus paper red upon contact. This indicates its proton-donating ability in aqueous solutions.
- Oxidizing Agent: HNO₃ acts as a potent oxidizing agent, participating in reactions with various substances like copper, carbon, and sulfur, which can undergo oxidation.
- Decomposition on Heating: Another notable property is its tendency to decompose when heated, breaking down into water (H₂O), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and oxygen (O₂). This showcases the compound's reactivity under thermal stress.
Understanding these chemical properties is crucial for safely handling nitric acid in laboratories and industrial applications and for exploring its various chemical reactions.