Nitrogen dioxide
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Description
A reddish-brown poisonous gas that is a component in photochemical smog. Nitrogen dioxide is a strong nitrating and oxidizing agents that can attack many types of materials. Liquid nitrogen dioxide is used as a rocket propellant. As an air pollutant, nitrogen dioxide is produced by the combustion of fossil fuels. Small amounts may be produced by the decomposition of Cellulose nitrate. Nitrogen dioxide can cause fading of dyes and organic colorants in textiles, paints, and photographs.
See also Nitrogen oxides.
Synonyms and Related Terms
dinitrogen tetroxide (as liquid)
Risks
- Toxic in small amounts by inhalation.
- Irritating to skin, eyes and other membranes.
- Corrosive to steel in the presence of moisture.
- Advanced Specialty Gases: SDS
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Soluble in concentrated sulfuric and nitric acids.
- Decomposes in water forming nitric acid and nitric oxide.
- Reacts with alkalis to form nitrates and nitrites.
| Composition | NO2 |
|---|---|
| CAS | 10102-44-0 |
| Melting Point | -9.3 C |
| Molecular Weight | mol. wt. = 46.01 |
| Boiling Point | 21.15 C |