Bismuth(III) nitrate

Bismuth(III) nitrate, also known as bismuth trinitrate, is a chemical compound with the formula Bi(NO₃)₃. It is a white crystalline solid that is commonly used in the preparation of other bismuth compounds and in various industrial applications.

Structure and Properties

Bismuth(III) nitrate is composed of bismuth cations (Bi³⁺) and nitrate anions (NO₃^-). The compound is typically found as the pentahydrate, Bi(NO₃)₃·5H₂O, which forms colorless crystals. It is soluble in nitric acid but insoluble in water, which makes it useful in certain chemical syntheses where water solubility is not desired.

Preparation

Bismuth(III) nitrate can be prepared by dissolving bismuth metal in concentrated nitric acid. The reaction is as follows:

Bi + 4 HNO₃ → Bi(NO₃)₃ + 2 H₂O + NO

This reaction produces bismuth(III) nitrate along with nitrogen monoxide gas as a byproduct.

Applications

Bismuth(III) nitrate is used in the preparation of other bismuth compounds, such as bismuth oxychloride and bismuth subnitrate. It is also used in the production of catalysts, pigments, and in the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of bismuth-containing drugs.

Safety and Handling

Bismuth(III) nitrate should be handled with care, as it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from incompatible materials such as strong reducing agents.

Also see

• Bismuth
• Nitrate
• Bismuth oxychloride
• Bismuth subnitrate
• Chemical compound