Preparation of 1 Mole of Nitric Acid: Safety and Steps

Why Prepare Nitric Acid?

Nitric acid (HNO?) is a highly reactive and powerful oxidizing agent. It is used in various industries for the production of fertilizers, explosives, and chemical intermediates. Proper preparation and safe handling of this substance are crucial for both industrial and academic purposes. In this article, we will explore how to prepare 1 molar (1 molal) nitric acid and emphasize the importance of safety measures during the process.

Key Safety Measures

Why is Safety Essential?

Handling nitric acid requires a high level of caution due to its corrosive and toxic nature. Irritation, chemical burns, and even blindness can occur if proper safety measures are not followed. Here are the essential safety equipment and precautions you should take:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, including safety goggles, a lab coat, and gloves. Ensure the use of a fume hood for any fumes produced during the process. Emergency Equipment: Have a fire extinguisher and eyewash station nearby at all times. It is also important to have a first aid kit available. Proper Ventilation: Ensure that the work area is well-ventilated to prevent inhalation of nitric acid fumes.

Preparation of 1 Molar Nitric Acid

What is 1 Molal Nitric Acid?

Molal concentration (m) is defined as the number of moles of solute present in 1 kg of solvent. In the context of nitric acid, 1 molal nitric acid means dissolving 1 mole of nitric acid in 1 kg of water. Here is a step-by-step guide to prepare 1 molal nitric acid:

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Gather Safety Equipment

Before starting the process, ensure that you have all the necessary safety equipment. Put on your PPE, including a lab coat, gloves, and safety goggles.

Step 2: Measure the Solvent

Start by measuring 1 kg of distilled water in a clean, corrosion-resistant beaker. Distilled water is recommended to avoid introducing impurities that could react with the nitric acid.

Step 3: Measure the Solute

Nitric acid has a molar mass of approximately 63 g/mol. Therefore, to prepare 1 molar nitric acid, you need to dissolve 63 grams of nitric acid in 1 kg of water. Measure 63 grams of nitric acid accurately using a balance or scale.

Step 4: Dissolve the Nitric Acid

Slowly add the nitric acid to the water, stirring carefully to avoid any splattering or rapid heating. This process should be performed in a fume hood to minimize exposure to the fumes. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure complete dissolution of the nitric acid.

Step 5: Final Check and Storage

Once the nitric acid is fully dissolved and the solution is clear, you can store it in a properly labeled, acid-resistant container. Ensure that the container is tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dry place away from any sources of heat or ignition.

Conclusion

Preparation of 1 molal nitric acid is a critical task that requires a high level of safety and precision. By following the steps outlined above and adhering to safety measures, you can safely prepare and handle nitric acid for your laboratory needs.

Additional Resources

If you have any questions or need further assistance, consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines or Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) safety protocols. These resources provide comprehensive information on handling hazardous chemicals safely.