stikstofzuur

Stikstofzuur is a common term used in Dutch to refer to nitric acid. Nitric acid, with the chemical formula HNO₃, is a highly corrosive mineral acid. It is a colorless liquid that fumes in the air, producing a pungent odor. Pure nitric acid is colorless, but it often appears yellowish due to the decomposition of nitrogen dioxide, which is a reddish-brown gas.

Nitric acid is a strong oxidizing agent and a strong acid. It reacts with most metals, though it passivates iron, chromium, and aluminum by forming a protective oxide layer. Its ability to oxidize is a key characteristic, and it plays a crucial role in various chemical processes.

Industrially, nitric acid is produced primarily through the Ostwald process, which involves the catalytic oxidation of ammonia. It is a fundamental chemical used in the production of fertilizers, explosives, and numerous organic compounds. In laboratories, it is employed as a reagent in nitration reactions and as an oxidizing agent. Due to its corrosive nature and strong oxidizing properties, handling nitric acid requires appropriate safety precautions, including protective clothing and ventilation.