nitrous acid

noun

, Chemistry.

1. an acid, HNO 2 , known only in solution.

nitrous acid

noun

1. a weak monobasic acid known only in solution and in the form of nitrite salts. Formula: HNO 2 Systematic namedioxonitric(III) acid

nitrous acid

1. A weak inorganic acid existing only in solution or in the form of its salts. It can act either as an oxidizing agent or as a reducing agent. Chemical formula: HNO 2 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitrous acid¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

Nitrite of ethyl is best made by passing nitrous acid gas into alcohol.

From Project Gutenberg

Nitrous air is completely decomposed by a mixture of about half its bulk of dephlogisticated air, and the produce is nitrous acid.

From Project Gutenberg

This air is likewise decomposed by dephlogisticated nitrous acid, which by this means becomes phlogisticated.

From Project Gutenberg

The nitrous acid may be exhibited in the form of air, as well as the vitriolic, the marine, and the fluor acids.

From Project Gutenberg

The nitrous acid unites with phlogiston, alkalis, metallic substances, and calcareous earth.

From Project Gutenberg