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 button to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Molar Mass | 63.013 g/mol |
| Density | 1513 kg/m3 |
| Dynamic Viscosity (25°C) | 0.746 mPa·s |
| Surface Tension | 41.15 mN/m |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Melting Point | -41.6 °C |
| Boiling Point | 83 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.294 W/m·K |
| Vapor Pressure | 6.4 kPa |
| Optical Properties | Metric |
| Refractive Index (589 nm) (16.5°C) | 1.397 |
| Hazardous Data | Metric |
| 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.