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**Molecular formula:** HNO₃ **Molar mass:** 63.013 g/mol **Description:** Nitric acid is a colorless liquid and a strong monobasic acid with powerful oxidizing properties. Certain metals, such as chromium, aluminum and iron, dissolve only in diluted nitric acid, as concentrated nitric acid passivates them by forming a protective oxide layer on their surfaces, preventing further reactions. A mixture of concentrated nitric acid and hydrochloric acid, known as aqua regia, is capable of dissolving gold. **Applications:** Nitric acid is a vital industrial chemical used in the production of explosives, dyes, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals.
