Question: why hno3 is called aqua fortis?
Answer: Nitric Acid - Aqua Fortis Aqua Fortis is the historical name used in alchemy during the Middle Ages. Its literal translation means 'strong water' and it was used to dissolve silver and most other metals. ... Aqua Fortis was a 'Corrosive' solution of the acid whose chemical formula is HNO3.