What is the Difference Between Bismuth Nitrate and Bismuth Subnitrate?

Bismuth nitrate and bismuth subnitrate are two related compounds that contain bismuth atoms in their +3 oxidation state. The key difference between them lies in their anion composition.

• Bismuth Nitrate: This compound contains Bi3+ cations and nitrate anions. It is a salt formed from the acid bismuth nitrate and is used in various applications, such as in the manufacturing of other bismuth compounds or as a catalyst in the production of plastics and synthetic fiber.
• Bismuth Subnitrate: Also known as bismuth oxynitrate or bismuthyl nitrate, this compound contains Bi3+ cations, nitrate anions, and oxide anions. It is a highly water-soluble crystalline compound that has been used as an antacid and in the treatment of duodenal ulcers [3}. Bismuth subnitrate can be prepared by hydrolyzing a solution of bismuth nitrate through the addition of an alkali or by reacting bismuth nitrate with potassium hydroxide.

In summary, the main difference between bismuth nitrate and bismuth subnitrate is the presence of oxide anions in bismuth subnitrate, which distinguishes it from bismuth nitrate that contains only nitrate anions.

Comparative Table: Bismuth Nitrate vs Bismuth Subnitrate

The main difference between bismuth nitrate and bismuth subnitrate lies in their chemical composition and structure. Here is a table comparing the two compounds:

Bismuth nitrate is a salt compound consisting of bismuth in the +3 oxidation state and nitrate anions. It is commonly available as the pentahydrate form, Bi(NO3)3·5H2O. Bismuth subnitrate, also known as bismuth oxynitrate or bismuthyl nitrate, is a compound consisting of Bi3+, nitrate ions, and oxide ions. It can be formed from Bi2O3, N2O5, and H2O.