Nitric Acid
Chapter Name : The P- Block Elements |
Sub Topic Code : 102_12_07_05_01 |
Topic Name : Nitric Acid |
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Sub Topic Name : Preparation, Properties And Uses |
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Introduction
We discuss the laboratory and industrial methods of preparing and purifying Nitric acid, its physical and chemical properties, uses, and the brown ring test for nitrate ions.
Pre-Requisites:
Catalysts, Oxidation/reduction, Arrhenius acid-base theory,
Activity:
Water bodies with high concentrations of nitrates undergo eutrophication and become completely covered in plant growth or algal blooms. This results in oxidative stress on the aquatic environment, making it inhospitable for marine life.
Real Life Question:
Why do people test drinking water for nitrates while determining its portability? What is the science behind these tests? How are fertilisers made?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Catalysis | The enhancement in the speed of a reaction by the addition of a substance called a catalyst. Different reactions require different catalysts. |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| 3D structures or toys- | To understand the structure of nitric acid and the nitrate ion. |
| Video aids- | To safely observe some of the reactions involving nitric acid. |
Real life uses :
Nitric acid is used to make fertilizers. It is also an important agent in the preparation of salts such as potassium nitrate which are used in making gunpowder. It is an important industrial oxidant.
Places to visit :
Nitrates are a major component of many fertilizers and constitute a part of the repertoire of most gardeners.
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| Water bodies with high nitrate concentration | Algal blooms happen on the surface, resulting in the death of fish. |
What you learn in Theory:
The structure, uses, properties and preparation of nitric acid and the nitrate ion.
What you learn in Practice:
The uses of nitric acid which are relevant to our daily lives, and also industrially.