How to Safely Prepare and Handle 1M Nitric Acid- A Comprehensive Guide

How to Prepare 1M Nitric Acid

Preparing 1M (molar) nitric acid is a task that requires careful attention to safety and precision. Nitric acid is a highly corrosive and oxidizing substance, and it is important to handle it with appropriate care. Below, we will outline the steps required to prepare 1M nitric acid.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials:

– Pure nitric acid (concentrated)
– Distilled water
– Measuring cylinder or graduated cylinder
– Beaker
– Safety goggles
– Gloves
– Lab coat
– Safety shower
– Fire extinguisher

Step 1: Safety Precautions

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling nitric acid. This includes safety goggles, gloves, and a lab coat. Ensure that you have immediate access to a safety shower and a fire extinguisher in case of an accident.

Step 2: Prepare the Solution

1. Begin by filling a beaker with distilled water. The amount of water will depend on the final volume of the solution you want to prepare. For a 1M solution, you will need to prepare 1 liter of solution.

2. Carefully add the pure nitric acid to the beaker containing the water. It is crucial to add the acid to the water, not the other way around, as this will help to minimize the risk of an exothermic reaction.

3. Stir the solution gently with a glass rod to ensure the acid is thoroughly mixed with the water. Be cautious, as the solution may become hot during this process.

Step 3: Adjust the Concentration

If you have a concentrated nitric acid solution with a known concentration, you can use it to prepare the 1M solution. To do this:

1. Calculate the volume of concentrated nitric acid needed using the formula:

M1V1 = M2V2

Where:
M1 = concentration of the concentrated nitric acid
V1 = volume of the concentrated nitric acid
M2 = desired concentration (1M)
V2 = desired volume (1 liter)

2. Measure the calculated volume of the concentrated nitric acid using a measuring cylinder or graduated cylinder.

3. Add the measured volume of concentrated nitric acid to the beaker containing the water and distilled water, following the same procedure as in Step 2.

4. Stir the solution gently and check the concentration using a pH meter or by titration with a standard base solution.

Step 4: Storage and Labeling

Once you have prepared the 1M nitric acid solution, transfer it to a suitable storage container. Ensure the container is made of a material that is resistant to corrosion, such as polyethylene or glass. Label the container clearly with the concentration, date of preparation, and any other relevant information.

Conclusion

Preparing 1M nitric acid requires careful attention to safety and precision. By following these steps and using appropriate PPE, you can successfully prepare a 1M nitric acid solution for your laboratory needs. Always remember to handle nitric acid with caution and seek assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the preparation process.