Zinc Nitrate is a highly versatile inorganic chemical compound, widely used in numerous sectors including manufacturing, medicine, and academia. It is composed of the metal element Zinc (Zn), and Nitrate ions (NO3), represented by the chemical formula Zn(NO3)2.

It often appears as a colourless to withe crystalline solid. It is highly deliquescent and does dissolve in water and alcohol. It can be synthesized by mixing zinc in nitric acid. It is naturally found as hexahydrate. It is widely used as a catalyst in the manufacturing of chemicals, dyes, and medicines.

Zn(NO3)2 is a non-combustible compound but it has the ability to enhance the burning of combustible compounds. Inhaling this inorganic chemical may lead to sore throat and severe coughing. When it comes in contact with skin and eyes it causes redness and pain. Ingesting this compound leads to nausea, abdominal pain, etc.

• Properties

Chemical formula : Zn(NO3)2

Molecular weight : 189.36 g/mol (anhydrous) ; 297.49 g/mol (hexahydrate)

Density : 2.065 g/cm3 (hexahydrate)

Boiling point : Approx 125 °C (hexahydrate)

Melting point : 110 °C (anhydrous) ; 45.5 °C (trihydrate) ; 36.4 °C (hexahydrate)

• Uses

In the Manufacturing sector: Zinc Nitrate is a significant compound in the production of other chemicals. It acts as a precursor in the synthesis of Zinc Phosphate, a corrosion-resistant coating for metals. Additionally, it’s used as a mordant in dyeing.

Medicine: In medical settings, Zinc Nitrate is utilized as a laboratory reagent and also plays a role in the creation of pharmaceuticals.

Academia: For educational and research purposes, this compound is employed in various chemistry experiments and demonstrations due to its reactive properties.

In addition to these, Zinc Nitrate finds use in the ceramics industry, where it functions as a flux in the high-temperature firing process.