Question

Describe the Ostwald's process for the manufacture of nitric acid with labeled diagram.

Answer 1

Ostwald process :-
The nitric acid is manufactured by Ostwald process, ln ostwald process ammonia gas and air are taken in 1:10 ratio, Pt gauge is used as a catalyst in ostwald process. Following steps are involved in Ostwald's process for the manufacture of nitric acid.

1. Oxidation of ammonia in catalytic chamber.

\[\ce{4NH3 +5O2 ->[Platinum gauge][800°C] 4NO + 6H2O +Heat}\]

2. Oxidation of nitric acid in oxidation chamber.

\[\ce{2NO + O2 ->[50°C] 2NO2}\]

3. Absorption of nitrogen dioxide in water.
\[\ce{4NO2 + O2 +2H2O -> 4HNO3}\]