Silver Nitrate (AgNO3)

Description

Why should you Buy Silver Nitrate from ReAgent?

• We supply silver nitrate in 25g, 100g and 250g containers, with discounts available for bulk orders
• This product is sold as white crystals with >99.9% purity levels
• Full MSDS can be found on our website
• In addition, we also supply 0.1M, 0.01M and 0.02M silver nitrate solutions

What is Silver Nitrate?

With the molecular formula AgNO₃, silver nitrate is an inorganic compound in the form of odourless white crystals. Historically, it was once called lunar caustic as ancient alchemists believed silver was related to the moon.

Typical Reactions Involving Silver Nitrate

A common reaction, known to many students around the world, involves suspending a copper rod in a silver nitrate solution. After a few hours, the solution is turned blue as the silver nitrate reacts with copper to generate silver metal crystals leaving copper nitrate (blue) in solution.

2 AgNO₃ Cu → Cu(NO₃)₂ 2 Ag

Another well-known reaction involves decomposition of silver nitrate at high temperatures. This reaction becomes particularly prevalent as the temperature approaches its melting point (250 degree Celsius) and will totally decompose at temperatures above 400 degree Celsius. Interestingly, this reaction produces elemental silver (Ag) instead of silver oxide, as it would be expected from the decomposition of metal nitrates.

2 AgNO₃(l) → 2 Ag(s) O₂(g) 2 NO₂(g)

How is Silver Nitrate Made?

Silver nitrate is usually prepared by mixing silver and nitric acid. The reaction produces silver nitrate, water and nitrogen oxide, but the exact ratio varies with the reaction conditions and nitric acid concentration:

Diluted and cold HNO₃ solutions: 3 Ag 4 HNO₃ → 3 AgNO₃ 2 H₂O NO Hot and concentrated HNO₃ solutions: Ag 2 HNO₃ → AgNO₃ H₂O NO₂

More Than 40 Years’ Experience

ReAgent has been an established chemical manufacturer for over 30 years and during that period, we’ve built an enviable reputation for high-quality products and excellent customer service. If you need assistance, a member of staff will be glad to help before, during and after your order. Contact us for further information or free technical advice.