[PDF] NITRIC ACID Used for etching and cleaning

Does nitric acid burn the skin?

Nitric acid is known to cause yellow stains when it comes in contact with human skin. During the reaction yellow colour nitrated products called xanthoproteic acid is formed. Nitric acid by nature is corrosive to the skin and can cause severe burns, scarring, ulceration, and should be handled carefully.

Is nitric acid a strong oxidizing agent?

These materials have significant ability as oxidizing agents, but that ability varies (for example, nitric acid is a stronger oxidizing agent than sulfuric acid and most sulfonic acids). They can react with active metals, including iron and aluminum, and also many less active metals, to dissolve the metal and liberate hydrogen and/or toxic gases.

Is nitric acid a reducing agent?

No, nitric acid is a powerful oxidising agent. In nitric acid (HNO3), nitrogen is in its maximum oxidation state of +5, and it cannot be oxidised further to any higher state. So, it cannot act as a reducing agent.