Which of the following liquids is capable of dissolving noble metals like gold and platinum?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Aqua regia.
Aqua regia is a solution of nitrohydrochloric acid, traditionally made from a 3:1 mixture of hydrochloric acid and nitric acid. It is frequently used to dissolve noble metals like gold, platinum, and palladium, particularly in microfabrication and microelectronics labs. Additionally, aqua regia can be used to clean glassware by removing trace organic compounds. This solution is extremely corrosive and must be handled with extreme caution, as it can cause explosions or severe skin burns.