can someone tell me about why we use HNO3 to digest samples before we did the heavy metals analysis?thanx?

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can someone tell me about why we use HNO3 to digest samples before we did the heavy metals analysis?thanx?

2007-02-15 03:02:35 · 2 answers · asked by asking 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry

2 answers

Sometimes you need a very strong acid, and sometimes and oxidizing acid like nitric or sulfuric at high temps, to completely get your sample into solution. This process is called digestion.

The concentration of you heavy metal doesn't change, but it may change composition to a more soluble form like: Mx(NO3)y-z.

Maybe for extra cerdit you can figure out what these soluble forms are!!

2007-02-15 03:18:45 · answer #1 · answered by Dr Dave P 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋

Since all metal nitrates are soluble, this acid represents the best chance of getting your sample into solution.

2007-02-15 12:06:36 · answer #2 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋