Copper II Nitrate Formula, Structure, Properties, and Uses

Copper II Nitrate Formula: Copper II Nitrate is composed of three elements: copper, nitrogen, and oxygen. Copper, a metal known for its exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity, occupies a position in group 11 of the periodic table and is denoted by the chemical symbol Cu with an atomic number of 29.

Nitrogen, a colorless, tasteless, and odorless gas, is the most abundant element in Earth's atmosphere and is situated in group 15 of the periodic table, symbolized by N. Oxygen, a highly reactive nonmetal found in group 16 of the periodic table, bears the symbol O and has an atomic number of 8.

Copper II Nitrate Formula

Copper II Nitrate is an inorganic, crystalline compound distinguished by its blue color and the molecular formula Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ . It exists in two forms: the trihydrate and hexahydrate variations.

When Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ is subjected to combustion, it releases toxic nitrogen oxides. Among its alternative names are Cupric nitrate and Copper Dinitrate. It can also be found naturally in certain minerals like rouaite and gerhardtite.

Copper II Nitrate Formula Structure

The structure of Copper II Nitrate is described by the chemical formula Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ , and its molecular arrangement is depicted as follows:

Preparation of Copper II Nitrate

Copper II Nitrate is typically synthesized through the reaction between copper metal and nitric acid, as demonstrated by the following chemical equation:

Cu + 4HNO ₃ → Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ + 2H ₂ O + 2NO ₂

Alternatively, another method to produce Copper II Nitrate involves treating copper with dinitrogen tetraoxide:

Cu + 2N ₂ O ₄ → Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ + 2NO

Copper II Nitrate Formula Physical Properties

Copper II Nitrate is observed as a crystalline solid with a distinct blue color.

It possesses a molecular weight of 187.5558 g/mol.

Copper II Nitrate is soluble in water, ethanol, and ammonia.

Its boiling point is 170 °C, while its melting point is 114.5 °C.

The density of Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ is 3.05 g/cm3.

Copper II Nitrate Formula Chemical Properties

Copper II Nitrate is used in the pyrolysis process at temperatures exceeding 180 °C to yield Cupric Oxide, as depicted in the following reaction:

2Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ → 2CuO + 4NO ₂ + O ₂

Copper Dinitrate reacts with acetic anhydride to facilitate the nitration process of aromatic compounds like benzene.

When blue Copper (II) Nitrate interacts with colourless sodium hydroxide, it forms a light blue precipitate, as shown below:

Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ + 2NaOH  →  Cu(OH) ₂ + 2NaNO ₃

Harmful Effects of Copper II Nitrate

Copper II Nitrate can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, throat, and lungs.

Although it is not a combustible compound by itself, when combined with wood and paper, it can lead to significant fire hazards.

Safety Measures for Handling Copper II Nitrate

It is crucial to avoid contact between the body and Copper II Nitrate to prevent irritation.

Care should be taken to ensure that Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ does not come into contact with explosives and wood.

Uses of Copper II Nitrate

Copper II Nitrate finds application as an insecticide.

It is used in the manufacture of medicines and light-sensitive papers.

It is utilized in the production of pyrotechnics, coatings, and blue pigments.

Burning Copper II Nitrate results in the release of toxic nitrogen oxides.

Copper Dinitrate is used to produce Cupric oxide.

Copper II Nitrate is a inorganic compound composed of copper, nitrogen, and oxygen. Its distinct blue color and molecular formula, Cu(NO ₃ ) ₂ , make it easily recognizable. This compound can be synthesized through various chemical reactions involving copper and nitric acid or dinitrogen tetraoxide. It possesses both physical and chemical properties, such as solubility in water and its role in pyrolysis processes.

However, it is important to note the potential harmful effects of Copper II Nitrate, including irritation to the eyes, skin, throat, and lungs, as well as the fire hazards it may pose when in contact with combustible materials. Therefore, appropriate safety measures are essential when handling this compound.

Copper II Nitrate finds application in diverse industries, from insecticides to medicine and pyrotechnics. Its versatility and unique properties make it a valuable substance in various chemical processes.

Overall, understanding the formula, properties, and applications of Copper II Nitrate is crucial for both scientific and industrial purposes, while also emphasizing the importance of safety precautions when working with this compound.