The common name for nitric acid is simply nitric acid. Unlike some chemicals that have alternative common names, nitric acid is primarily referred to by its chemical name.
Nitric acid is a strong and highly corrosive acid composed of nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen, with the chemical formula HNO3. It is a colorless or yellowish liquid that is highly reactive and can cause severe burns and other hazards upon contact.
The common name "nitric acid" reflects its composition (nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen) and its acidic nature. It is widely used in various industrial processes, such as the production of fertilizers, dyes, explosives, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used in laboratory settings for various purposes, including chemical analysis, metal etching, and as a reagent in organic synthesis.
Given the prominence and specificity of the term "nitric acid," it is generally the preferred and widely recognized name for this chemical.