Skip to main content

Nitrate

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
NO3-
CAS number
14797-55-8
IUPAC name
nitrate
State
State

Nitrates are generally found as solid salts at room temperature when combined with metals or other cations. These solids are usually stable and soluble in water.

Melting point (Celsius)
0.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
273.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
273.15
General information
Molecular weight
62.00g/mol
Molar mass
62.0040g/mol
Density
1.7200g/cm3
Appearence

Nitrate compounds typically appear as colorless to white crystalline solids. They can also appear as powders and have a glossy sheen, depending on the specific compound.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Nitrate Ion (NO3-)

The nitrate ion, NO3-, exhibits high solubility in water, which can be attributed to several key factors:

  • Ion-Dipole Interactions: Nitrate ions interact well with water molecules, forming strong ion-dipole attractions that facilitate dissolution.
  • Hydrogen Bonding: Although the nitrate ion does not directly form hydrogen bonds, its interaction with water molecules is enhanced through the formation of hydrogen bonds between water and the oxygen atoms in the ion.
  • Ion Size and Charge Distribution: The relatively small size of the nitrate ion and its negative charge allow it to remain soluble in a wide range of solvent environments.

As a result of these properties, the nitrate ion is generally considered highly soluble in various polar solvents, particularly in water. This solubility is notably exploited in many chemical and biological processes.

Practical Implications of Nitrate Solubility

The high solubility of NO3- implies:

  • Its significance in agriculture, as it readily dissolves in soil moisture, making it accessible for plant uptake.
  • The potential for mobility within aquatic ecosystems, which can lead to environmental concerns such as eutrophication if concentrations exceed safe levels.

In summary, the solubility of the nitrate ion is an essential characteristic that plays a crucial role in chemistry, biology, and environmental science.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Nitrate (NO3-)

Nitrate is a fascinating polyatomic ion that plays a critical role in various chemical and biological processes. Here are some intriguing aspects of nitrate that highlight its importance:

  • Nutrient Source: Nitrates are vital nutrients for plants. They serve as a primary source of nitrogen, which is essential for the synthesis of amino acids and proteins. This makes nitrates a crucial component of fertilizers.
  • Ecological Balance: Nitrate ions contribute to the nitrogen cycle, a fundamental ecological process. They assist in transforming nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into forms that living organisms can utilize.
  • Health Considerations: While nitrates are beneficial in moderate amounts, excessive concentrations in drinking water can lead to health problems, including Methemoglobinemia or "blue baby syndrome." Understanding this risk is essential in agricultural practices.
  • Industrial Uses: Nitrates are utilized in various industrial applications, including the manufacture of explosives, food preservation, and in the synthesis of other chemicals.
  • Environmental Impact: Nitrate pollution is a significant environmental issue, leading to eutrophication in water bodies. This process causes harmful algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels, affecting aquatic life.
  • Analytical Chemistry: Nitrate ions can be easily detected using various analytical techniques, such as ion chromatography and colorimetric methods, making them a focus of environmental monitoring.

The versatility of nitrate in nature, agriculture, industry, and its implications for health and the environment showcases its multifaceted significance. As we strive for balanced ecosystems and sustainable agricultural practices, understanding nitrate's roles and effects is more crucial than ever!

Synonyms
nitrate
NITRATE ION
14797-55-8
Nitrates
Nitrate(1-)
NO3-
trioxonitrate(V)
trioxonitrate(1-)
NITRATO
trioxidonitrate(1-)
Nitrate (No3-)
NITRATE ANION
UNII-T93E9Y2844
UN3218
T93E9Y2844
NITRATE ION (NO3-)
CHEMBL186200
NO3
DTXSID5024217
NITRIC ACID, ION(1-)
CHEBI:17632
Nitrate (6CI,7CI,8CI,9CI)
NO3(-)
Nitrate as N @ 1000 microg/mL in H2O
Nitrate as N @ 10000 microg/mL in H2O
Nitrate(1-); Nitrato; Nitric acid, ion(1-)
Nitrate(6CI,7CI,8CI,9CI)
NO3?
(NO3)(-)
[NO3](-)
Nitrate Standard: NO3- @ 1000 microg/mL in H2O
Nitrate Standard: NO3- @ 10000 microg/mL in H2O
nitrooxidane
trioxidonitrate
trioxonitrate
ISOSORBIDE DINITRATE, DILUTED IMPURITY A (EP IMPURITY)
ISOSORBIDE DINITRATE, DILUTED IMPURITY A [EP IMPURITY]
ISOSORBIDE MONONITRATE, DILUTED IMPURITY A (EP IMPURITY)
ISOSORBIDE MONONITRATE, DILUTED IMPURITY A [EP IMPURITY]
Nitrate Standard
MFCD00144920
INORGANIC NITRATES
732 - Meat Based Sample
Nitrates, inorganic, n.o.s.
DTXCID904217
Fresh water-Nitrate, low level
Nitrate Anion Standard Solution
Fresh water-Nitrate, high level
BDBM26988
AKOS015904030
65 -Nitrate & Nitrite in milk powder
DB14049
N511
Nitrate standard solution (100 ppm NO3)
787 - Nitrate analysis of vegetable leaves
NS00114192
798 - Nitrate in infant vegetable food puree
Q182168
Nitrates, inorganic, n.o.s. [UN1447] [Oxidizer]
718 - Nitrate and nitrite analysis of fish and fish products