Question

Dilute nitric acid is generally considered a typical acid except for its reaction with metals. In what way is dilute nitric acid different from other acids when it reacts with metals?

Answer 1

Dilute nitric acid is generally considered a typical acid except for its reaction with metals because it does not liberate hydrogen. It is a powerful oxidising agent, and nascent oxygen formed oxidises hydrogen to water.

Answer 2

Metals, which are above hydrogen in the electrochemical series, produce hydrogen from the acid. Hydrogen created in the nascent state lowers excess nitric acid, resulting in water and a reduction product. Nitric acid is a potent oxidising agent. The reduction product varies depending on the acid concentration.