Properties of Nitric Acid (HNO3)

Nitric acid (HNO3) is a strong mineral acid known for its corrosive and acidic properties. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is highly reactive. Nitric acid is commonly used in various industrial applications, including as a component in the production of fertilizers, explosives, and chemicals.

The following table provides a comprehensive list of nitric acid properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).

Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.

Table of Nitric Acid Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Molar Mass63.013 g/mol
Density1513 kg/m3
Dynamic Viscosity (25°C)0.746 mPa·s
Surface Tension41.15 mN/m
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point-41.6 °C
Boiling Point83 °C
Thermal Conductivity0.294 W/m·K
Vapor Pressure6.4 kPa
Optical PropertiesMetric
Refractive Index (589 nm) (16.5°C)1.397
Hazardous DataMetric
NFPA Rating (Health)4
NFPA Rating (Fire)0
NFPA Rating (Reactivity)0

Unless stated otherwise, all values are taken at room temperature (approximately 20°C or 68°F) and 1 atm pressure. (1 atm = 101,325 Pa)

References: 1) Cardarelli, François. Materials Handbook: A Concise Desktop Reference. Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2018. 2) CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 97th Edition. United Kingdom: CRC Press, 2016-2017. 3) Yaws, Carl L. The Yaws Handbook of Physical Properties for Hydrocarbons and Chemicals. Netherlands: Elsevier Science, 2015. 4) Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials, 14th Edition. United States: National Fire Protection Association, 2010.