nitric adjective. ['nʌɪtrɪk] L18.
[from NITRE noun + -IC.]
Chemistry. Orig., pertaining to, derived from, or containing nitre. Now usu., of or containing nitrogen, esp. in the pentavalent state. Cf. NITROUS.
nitric acid a highly corrosive and toxic acid, HNO₃, which in its pure state is a clear colourless or pale yellow fuming liquid with a pungent smell, and which is used in manufacturing chemicals, as a metal solvent, etc.; cf. AQUA FORTIS. nitric oxide a colourless gas, NO, which reacts readily with air to form nitrogen dioxide.

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