How Nitric Acid Is Made?

Nitric acid is made by reaction of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) with water. The net reaction is: 3 NO2 + H2O → 2 HNO3 + NO. Normally, the nitric oxide produced by the reaction is reoxidized by the oxygen in air to produce additional nitrogen dioxide.

Is nitric acid man made?

The natural manner in which nitrates reach the soil involves the reaction of nitrogen gas and oxygen gas in the atmosphere to form nitrogen dioxide gas (NO2), which then reacts with atmospheric water, making nitric acid, which provides a natural source of nitrates in water and soil.

Where is nitric acid made?

Nitric acid is made by the reaction of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) with water. Normally, the nitric oxide produced by the reaction is re-oxidized by the oxygen in air to produce additional nitrogen dioxide. Adding sulfuric acid to a nitrate salt and heating the mixture with an oil bath can make almost pure nitric acid.

Elena Rostova

Elena Rostova

Lead Health, Wellness & Medical Journalist

Elena Rostova holds a Master's degree in Public Health Journalism. She covers groundbreaking medical research, holistic wellness trends, mental health awareness, and nutritional science.