The Strength of Sulfuric Acid vs Nitric Acid

Which acid is stronger: sulfuric acid or nitric acid?

Why does sulfuric acid act as the acid if nitric acid accepts a proton from it?

Answer:

Sulfuric acid is stronger than nitric acid in terms of its proton-donating ability. However, nitric acid does not act as a base when in contact with sulfuric acid.

When comparing sulfuric acid and nitric acid, it's important to understand the concept of acid strength. The strength of an acid is typically determined by its ability to donate protons (H+) in an aqueous solution. Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) has the capacity to donate two protons per molecule, whereas nitric acid (HNO3) can only donate one proton.

Due to its ability to release more H+ ions, sulfuric acid is considered stronger than nitric acid. This characteristic makes sulfuric acid a powerful acid in chemical reactions.

It's crucial to note that when nitric acid comes in contact with sulfuric acid, it does not behave as a base. In this particular interaction, both acids retain their acidic properties and do not switch roles to act as bases.

During the reaction between nitric acid and sulfuric acid, nitric acid donates its proton to sulfuric acid. This process results in the formation of a sulfate ion (SO₄²⁻) and a nitronium ion (NO₂⁺). Despite this proton transfer, nitric acid remains an acid rather than transforming into a base.

In summary, while sulfuric acid is stronger than nitric acid in terms of proton donation, nitric acid does not exhibit base-like behavior when reacting with sulfuric acid. Both acids maintain their acidic identities even in the presence of one another.