Silver Nitrate Properties

• CAS Number: 7761-88-8
• Synonyms: AgNO₃, Silver(I) Nitrate
• Formula Weight: 169.87 grams/Mole
• High Purity (AgNO₃ contains 67.27% Silver)
• Normal Purity (AgNO₃ contains 63.55% Silver)
• Density: 4.35 grams per cubic centimeter (when compressed)
• Density: 2.21 grams per cubic centimeter (in powder form, like we sell)
• Melting Point: 212°C (413°F)
• Boiling Point: 440°C (824°F), decomposes
• Solubility: Depends on temperature. See Solubility of Silver Nitrate.
• Shelf Life: Indefinite

Light Sensitivity and Handling

This is a dry, white powder. It is not light sensitive, even in direct sunlight, when kept inside a sealed container.

• Pure Silver Nitrate, the kind we sell, is not light sensitive. Impure Silver Nitrate, the kind we do not sell, can be light sensitive.
• It can be handled in room lighting without risk of light sensitivity.
• It is best to buy it pre-ground and sifted, like ours.
• It is not impact sensitive. It will not explode or ignite when struck between heavy objects.
• It is extremely soluble in water (2,570 g per Liter at 25°C).
• It is soluble in Ammonia. This forms explosive di-amine silver upon drying.
• It is not very soluble in concentrated Nitric Acid (2 grams per Liter).
• Always use Distilled Water, the grocery store type, when dissolving Silver Nitrate.
• When Silver Nitrate is added to water, the water cools. The reaction is endothermic.
• Silver Nitrate powder is generally toxic. The taste is extremely bitter.
• Always store Silver Nitrate in Glass Containers. It can be stored safely in Polyacrylate as well, for example a 2 liter soda bottle plastic.
• Never store or ship Silver Nitrate in Polyethylene bags or bottles, because it will get gummy.
• Like all chemicals, avoid breathing the dust and excess skin contact, and wear safety glasses. Most of all, keep Silver Nitrate and its solutions away from your eyes.