Question

Which acid is known as aqua fortis?

• A. Sulphuric acid
• B. Nitric acid
• C. Hydrochloric acid
• D. Carbonic acid

Hint:

Remember these historical alchemical names:

\textbf{Aqua Fortis} ("strong water") = \textbf{Nitric Acid}
\textbf{Spirit of Salt} = \textbf{Hydrochloric Acid}
\textbf{Oil of Vitriol} = \textbf{Sulphuric Acid}

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand the term. "Aqua fortis" is an archaic name from alchemy. It is Latin for "strong water."

Step 2: Identify the acid. The name was given because of the acid's ability to dissolve most metals, including silver. The acid historically known as aqua fortis is nitric acid (\(HNO_3\)).

Step 3: Evaluate the options. Comparing this knowledge with the options provided, nitric acid is the correct answer. Aqua regia ("royal water"), a mixture of nitric acid and hydrochloric acid, was so named because it could even dissolve gold.