AQUA REGIA Meaning and
Definition
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Aqua regia is a highly corrosive and volatile yellowish-orange liquid composed of a mixture of concentrated nitric acid (HNO3) and concentrated hydrochloric acid (HCl). The term "aqua regia" is derived from Latin, meaning "royal water," as this powerful chemical mixture has the ability to dissolve noble metals, including gold and platinum.
Aqua regia is primarily used as a solvent for metals and minerals in various laboratory and industrial applications. It is particularly valued for its capability to dissolve gold, which is otherwise known for its resistance to most acids and chemicals. The combination of nitric acid and hydrochloric acid in aqua regia creates a highly oxidizing and reactive solution that can break down the protective layers of metals and release ions.
The high reactivity of aqua regia is primarily attributed to the liberation of nascent chlorine and nitrosyl chloride gas, which are strong oxidizing agents. The concentrated nitric acid component provides the oxidizing power, while the hydrochloric acid provides the chloride ions, preventing the precipitation of insoluble salts and aiding the dissolution process.
Due to its corrosive nature and release of toxic fumes, aqua regia should be handled with extreme caution and only in a well-ventilated area. It is usually prepared fresh in small quantities when required, as it can react violently when stored for an extended period. Aqua regia is widely used in various scientific and analytical methods, such as in the determination of metal content and for preparing samples for instrumental analysis.
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Royal water; a mixture of nitric and muriatic acids; a dissolvent of gold, the king of the metals; now called nitro-muriatic acid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for AQUA REGIA
- zqua regia
- squa regia
- wqua regia
- qqua regia
- a1ua regia
- a2ua regia
- awua regia
- aaua regia
- aqya regia
- aqha regia
- aqja regia
- aqia regia
- aq8a regia
- aq7a regia
- aquz regia
- aqus regia
- aquw regia
- aquq regia
- aqua eegia
Etymology of AQUA REGIA
The term Aqua Regia originates from Latin. Aqua means water, and Regia translates to royal. So, Aqua Regia directly translates to royal water.
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