Aqua Fortis Now

(Latin for "strong water") is the historical and alchemical name for nitric acid ( HNO3cap H cap N cap O sub 3

: Traditionally prepared by distilling a mixture of saltpeter (potassium nitrate) with vitriol (sulfates) or alum.

Beyond its role in historical chemistry, aqua fortis remains relevant in specialized crafts: Aqua fortis stain application techniques - Facebook

). It is a highly corrosive mineral acid known for its ability to dissolve most metals, including silver, though it cannot dissolve gold or platinum on its own. Chemical Properties and History

: While aqua fortis is straight nitric acid, aqua regia ("royal water") is a more potent mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids specifically used to dissolve "noble" metals like gold. Modern and Traditional Uses

: A colorless liquid when pure, though older samples often turn yellow or brown due to decomposition into nitrogen oxides.