CAS Number: 7761-88-8
Synonyms: AgNO3, Silver(I) Nitrate.
Formula Weight: 169.87 grams/Mole
— High Purity (AgNO3 contains 67.27% Silver)
— Normal Purity (AgNO3 contains 63.55% Silver)
Density: 4.35 grams per cubic centimeter (when compressed)
Density: 2.21 grams per cubic centimeter (in powder form, like we sell)
Melting Point: 212°C ( 413°F )
Boiling Point: 440°C ( 824°F ) – decomposes
Solubility: Depends on temperature. ( See: Solubility of Silver Nitrate )
Shelf Life: Indefinite.
This is a dry, white powder.
It is not light sensitive (even in direct sunlight) when kept inside a sealed container.
Pure Silver Nitrate (the kind we sell) is not light sensitive.
Impure Silver Nitrate (the kind we don’t sell) can be light sensitive.
It can be handled in room lighting without risk of light sensitivity.
It is best to buy it pre-ground and sifted (like ours).
It is not impact sensitive. It won’t explode or ignite when struck between heavy objects.
It is extremely soluble in water. (2,570g / Liter @ 25°C)
It is soluble in Ammonia. (Forms explosive di-amine silver upon drying!)
It is not very soluble in concentrated Nitric Acid. (2 grams / Liter)
Always use Distilled Water (the grocery store type) when dissolving Silver Nitrate.
When Silver Nitrate is added to water, the water cools. (endothermic)
Silver Nitrate powder is generally toxic. The taste is extremely bitter!
Always store Silver Nitrate in Glass Containers!
Silver Nitrate can be stored safely in Polyacrylate, however (eg: “2 liter Soda bottle” plastic).
Never store or ship Silver Nitrate in Polyethylene bags or bottles! – it will get “gummy”.
Like all chemicals, avoid breathing the dust, excess skin contact, and wear safety glasses.
Most of all, keep Silver Nitrate and it’s solutions away from your eyes!