Background Key Words Description Copper metal is dissolved in nitric acid. The copper in the copper nitrate solution is converted into copper hydroxide which, upon heating, is converted into copper oxide. The copper oxide is dissolved in acid, and the resulting solution is treated with zinc metal to produce copper metal. This is not performed as a quantitative experiment. Go to Top Hazards Concentrated nitric acid, dilute sodium hydroxide, and dilute sulfuric acid are corrosive.
Burns are possible from the heating device.
Injuries are possible as the result of centrifugation. Wear gloves when handling concentrated nitric acid. Wear eye protection at all times. Wash spills immediately using large amounts of water. Check safety showers and eye wash fountains.