What Is the Difference Between Sodium Nitrate & Sodium Nitrite?

Sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite and both used in industrial applications and have similar properties. Regardless, they are separate compounds with different specific uses.

Sodium Nitrate

Sodium nitrate has the molecular formula NaNO3. It is known as "Chile saltpeter" or "Peru saltpeter" and is a white solid that is highly soluble in water.

Sodium Nitrite

Sodium nitrite has the chemical formula NaNO2. It is a white to slightly yellowish crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. Sodium nitrite is also slowly oxidized by oxygen in the air to form sodium nitrate.

Uses for Sodium Nitrate

Sodium nitrate is used primarily as an ingredient in fertilizers. Applications in pyrotechnics, food preservatives, rocket propellant and glass and pottery enamels are also common. Sodium nitrate also has antimicrobial properties, hence its use in food preservation.

Uses for Sodium Nitrite

Sodium nitrite is used primarily in the food industry as a food additive. It is used both as food coloring and as a food preservative because it prevents the formation of botulism. However, the use of sodium nitrite in food is regulated due to its possible carcinogenic properties: In high doses, sodium nitrite has caused cancer in lab animals.

Fun Facts

Sodium nitrate is used in instant cold packs.

Sodium nitrate is combined with sulfuric acid to make nitric acid.

References

• What is the difference between Sodium Nitrite and Sodium Nitrate?
• Hot Dogs May Cause Cancer, Genetic Mutations