Question

Which of the following is the correct molecular formula of Nitric acid?

• A. $HN{O}_3$
• B. $HN{O}_2$
• C. $HNO$
• D. $H_{3}N{O}_2$

Answer 1

The correct option is A

$HN{O}_3$

Nitric acid $HN{O}_3$, also known as aqua fortis and spirit of nitre, is a highly corrosive mineral acid. The pure compound is colourless, but older samples tend to acquire a yellow cast due to decomposition into oxides of nitrogen and water. Most commercially available nitric acid has a concentration of 68% in water. When the solution contains more than 86% $HN{O}_3$, it is referred to as fuming nitric acid. Depending on the amount of nitrogen dioxide present, fuming nitric acid is further characterized as white fuming nitric acid or red fuming nitric acid, at concentrations above 95%.