Nitrate

Nitrate is a polyatomic ion with the molecular formula NO₃⁻. It is the conjugate base of nitric acid, consisting of one central nitrogen atom surrounded by three identically bonded oxygen atoms in a trigonal planar arrangement. The nitrate ion carries a formal charge of −1. This results from a combination of the +5 oxidation state of the nitrogen and the −2 oxidation state of the oxygen.

Properties

Nitrates are common components of fertilizers and explosives. Almost all nitrates are soluble in water. A common example of an inorganic nitrate salt is potassium nitrate (saltpeter).

Health effects

Ingested nitrate is reduced to nitrite (NO₂⁻) by bacteria in the mouth or gastrointestinal tract. In the body, nitrite easily oxidizes to form nitrate. This is an endogenous source of nitrate in bodily secretions, which can be converted to nitrite and cause health problems.

See also

• Nitrite
• Nitric acid
• Potassium nitrate

References

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