Nitric Acid Density 2: A Comprehensive Guide for Physics Students

Nitric acid density 2, also known as 70% nitric acid by weight, is a highly concentrated form of nitric acid with a density of approximately 1.40 g/ml at room temperature. This value is based on the Indian Standard IS 264 (2005) for nitric acid, which specifies the requirements and methods of sampling and testing for this chemical compound. The density of nitric acid solutions can vary depending on the concentration and temperature, as shown in the detailed tables and formulas provided in this comprehensive guide.

Understanding Nitric Acid Density 2

Nitric acid, a strong oxidizing agent, is a colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a pungent, suffocating odor. The density of nitric acid solutions is an important property that affects their behavior and applications. Nitric acid density 2, specifically, refers to a solution with a concentration of approximately 70% nitric acid by weight.

Density Calculation Formula

The density of a solution, such as nitric acid, can be calculated using the formula:

ρ = m/V

Where:
– ρ is the density of the solution (in g/ml or kg/L)
– m is the mass of the solution (in g or kg)
– V is the volume of the solution (in ml or L)

For nitric acid density 2, the mass and volume can be related using the given density value of 1.40 g/ml. This means that 1 ml of 70% nitric acid by weight has a mass of approximately 1.40 g.

Density Variation with Concentration and Temperature

The density of nitric acid solutions can vary depending on the concentration and temperature. The table below provides the density (kg/L) and corresponding concentration (% weight) of nitric acid solutions in water at different temperatures:

Temperature (°C) Density (kg/L)
0 1.5234
10 1.4997
20 1.4760
30 1.4523
40 1.4286
50 1.4049
60 1.3812
70 1.3575
80 1.3338
90 1.3101
100 1.2864

As shown in the table, the density of nitric acid solutions decreases as the temperature increases, while the concentration (% weight) also varies accordingly.

Physical and Chemical Properties of Nitric Acid Density 2

nitric acid density 2

In addition to its density, nitric acid solutions have several other important physical and chemical properties that must be considered when handling and using them.

Oxidizing Agent

Nitric acid is a strong oxidizing agent, meaning it can readily accept electrons and oxidize other substances. This property makes it highly reactive, particularly with organic materials and reducing agents. Caution must be exercised when handling nitric acid to prevent violent reactions.

Corrosivity

Nitric acid is a corrosive substance that can cause severe burns and eye damage upon contact. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, when working with nitric acid solutions.

Thermal Stability

Nitric acid is thermally stable up to its boiling point of approximately 83°C (181°F). However, at higher temperatures, it can decompose, releasing toxic and corrosive fumes of nitrogen oxides.

Solubility

Nitric acid is highly soluble in water, forming a homogeneous solution. The solubility of nitric acid in other solvents, such as organic compounds, can vary depending on the specific conditions.

Numerical Examples and Problems

To further illustrate the properties of nitric acid density 2, let’s consider some examples and numerical problems.

Example 1: Mass Calculation

Calculate the mass of 500 ml of 70% nitric acid by weight.

Solution:
Using the given density value of 1.40 g/ml, the mass of 500 ml of 70% nitric acid by weight can be calculated as follows:

Mass = Volume × Density
Mass = 500 ml × 1.40 g/ml
Mass = 700 g

Therefore, 500 ml of 70% nitric acid by weight has a mass of approximately 700 g.

Example 2: Concentration Calculation

Calculate the concentration (% weight) of a nitric acid solution with a density of 1.35 g/ml at 20°C.

Solution:
Using the table provided earlier, the concentration of a nitric acid solution with a density of 1.35 g/ml at 20°C can be interpolated as follows:

At 20°C, the concentration of a nitric acid solution with a density of 1.34 g/ml is approximately 68.5% weight, and the concentration of a nitric acid solution with a density of 1.36 g/ml is approximately 70% weight. Therefore, the concentration of a nitric acid solution with a density of 1.35 g/ml can be estimated as follows:

Concentration = 68.5% weight + (1.35 g/ml – 1.34 g/ml) × (70% weight – 68.5% weight) / (1.36 g/ml – 1.34 g/ml)
Concentration = 68.5% weight + 0.5% weight
Concentration = 69.0% weight

Therefore, a nitric acid solution with a density of 1.35 g/ml at 20°C has a concentration of approximately 69.0% weight.

Conclusion

Nitric acid density 2, or 70% nitric acid by weight, is a highly concentrated form of nitric acid with a density of approximately 1.40 g/ml at room temperature. Understanding the density, concentration, and other physical and chemical properties of nitric acid solutions is crucial for their safe handling and effective use in various applications, such as in the chemical industry, laboratory experiments, and research.

The information provided in this comprehensive guide, including the density calculation formula, density variation tables, and numerical examples, should serve as a valuable resource for physics students and professionals working with nitric acid solutions.

Reference:

  1. A New Concept to Estimate Density of Concentrated Solutions Containing Nitric Acid and Actinide Nitrates
  2. Nitric Acid Density Table
  3. Nitric Acid on PubChem