Multiple choice

Which of the following turns passive by adding HNO3?

  1. Al

  2. Be

  3. Both 1 and 2

  4. Cu
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Both Al and Be become passive in concentrated HNO3 because the acid forms a thin, protective oxide layer on their surface that prevents further reaction. This passivation is characteristic of metals that form amphoteric oxides and occurs only with concentrated nitric acid.

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