What is the molecular formula of Nitric Acid?

The molecular formula of nitric acid is HNO₃. It is one of the most important mineral acids in chemistry and plays a key role in various industrial and laboratory processes. The molecule consists of one hydrogen (H) atom, one nitrogen (N) atom, and three oxygen (O) atoms. It is a strong oxidizing acid, meaning it can readily donate oxygen and react vigorously with metals and other substances.

Nitric acid is a colorless, highly corrosive liquid that emits toxic fumes when exposed to air. Its chemical structure shows that one of the oxygen atoms is double-bonded to nitrogen, while another is bonded through a hydroxyl group (–OH), which gives the compound its acidic properties. The third oxygen atom is connected through a coordinate bond, contributing to the molecule’s stability and reactivity.

In aqueous solution, nitric acid ionizes completely, releasing hydrogen ions (H⁺) and nitrate ions (NO₃⁻). This complete ionization makes it a strong acid, unlike weaker acids that ionize only partially. Because of its oxidizing nature, nitric acid reacts with many metals such as copper and zinc, producing metal nitrates, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) gas, and water (H₂O).

Industrially, nitric acid is produced by the Ostwald process, which involves the oxidation of ammonia (NH₃) using platinum or rhodium catalysts at high temperatures. It is widely used in the manufacture of fertilizers (like ammonium nitrate), explosives (such as TNT and nitroglycerin), and dyes. It is also used in etching metals, purifying precious metals, and chemical analysis.

Understanding the formula and properties of nitric acid helps students connect chemical composition to real-world applications, demonstrating how this single compound influences agriculture, industry, and scientific research