BiONO3

BiONO3, also known as bismuth nitrate, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Bi(NO3)3. It is a salt of bismuth and nitric acid. In its anhydrous form, it is a white crystalline solid, though it commonly exists as a pentahydrate, Bi(NO3)3·5H2O, which is also a white solid. Bismuth nitrate is soluble in acidic solutions but tends to hydrolyze in water, forming insoluble basic bismuth nitrates.

This compound is typically prepared by dissolving bismuth metal or bismuth(III) oxide in nitric acid. The resulting solution can then be evaporated to obtain bismuth nitrate crystals. Bismuth nitrate is a common precursor for the preparation of other bismuth compounds. For instance, it can be used to synthesize bismuth oxide, which has applications in ceramics and as a catalyst.

In terms of applications, bismuth nitrate has found use in various fields. It has been employed as an antiseptic and astringent in medicinal preparations, though its use in this capacity has largely been superseded by other compounds. It is also used as a laboratory reagent and in the production of pigments and fireworks, where it can contribute to specific colors. The hydrolysis of bismuth nitrate in aqueous solutions is a notable characteristic that influences its handling and applications. Its decomposition upon heating produces bismuth oxides and nitrogen oxides.