Question

    Why is commercial nitric acid typically yellow or brown in color?

    A Presence of oxygen Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Presence of nitrous oxide Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Presence of nitrogen dioxide Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Colored impurities Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    Commercial nitric acid appears yellow or brown because it contains dissolved nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), a brown gas that forms when nitric acid decomposes, especially in the presence of light.

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