The above chemical equation describes the reaction between nitric acid (HNO3) and copper sulfide (CuS2) to produce nitrogen dioxide (NO2), water (H2O), copper(II) nitrate (Cu(NO3)2), and sulfur (S).
- Reaction conditions
The reaction occurs under normal temperature and pressure conditions and requires the presence of a catalyst to accelerate the reaction rate.
- Reaction process
When nitric acid and copper sulfide come into contact, they react to produce nitrogen dioxide, water, copper(II) nitrate and sulfur. This process occurs very quickly and vigorously, often accompanied by the release of heat.
- Occurrence phenomenon
When the reaction occurs, a brown smoke phenomenon (due to NO2) appears. In addition, there will be a color change of the solution from the white of CuS2 to the blue of Cu(NO3)2. Finally, yellow solid sulfur is formed and rises to the surface of the solution.