Sciencemadness Discussion Board

Nitric Acid

MttLsp - 6-8-2010 at 17:43

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[Edited on 7-8-2010 by MttLsp]

entropy51 - 6-8-2010 at 17:51

Quote: Originally posted by MttLsp  
Here's my idea:
1) NH4NO3 + NaOH --> NaNO3 + NH3 + H2O
The Ammonium Nitrate is obtained from an instant cold packs and can be purified by crystallization and filtration. Then it's combined in an aqueous solution of Sodium Hydroxide and heated until no more Ammonia is produced. Then the solution is carefully evaporated.

2) 2NaNO3 + 2C --> 2NaCO3 + 2N2
The Sodium Nitrate is melted, and red hot charcoal is dropped into the molten salt, producing sodium carbonate and nitrogen gas.
Your (1) is a good way to make NaNO3. Your(2) is a good way to make third degree burns and eyeballs bouncing along the floor. Don't do this at home.