When an aluminum container is used to transport concentrated Nitric acid, the metal does not dissolve. What mechanism explains this chemical passivity?
Q1. When an aluminum container is used to transport concentrated Nitric acid, the metal does not dissolve. What mechanism explains this chemical passivity?
Answer: Formation of a protective oxide layer
Explanation: Concentrated Nitric acid renders Aluminum passive by forming an oxide layer; dilute acid is tempting but actually reacts to release nitrogen oxides.