Dilute solutions give a white
precipitate with barium nitrate, insoluble in hydrochloric acid even on
boiling.
_Fatal Dose._--In an adult, 1 drachm.
_Fatal Period._--Shortest, three-quarters of an hour; average period
from onset of primary effects, eighteen to twenty-four hours.
XI.--NITRIC ACID
=Nitric Acid=, or aqua fortis, is less frequently used as a poison than
sulphuric acid. The fumes from nitric acid have caused death from
pneumonia in ten or twelve hours.
_Method of Extraction from the Stomach._--The same as for sulphuric
acid. In beer, etc., the mixture may be neutralized with carbonate of
potassium, dialyzed, the fluid concentrated and allowed to crystallize,
when crystals of nitrate of potassium may be recognized.
_Post-Mortem Appearance._--The mucous membranes are rendered yellow or
greenish if bile be present; they are also thickened and hardened.
_Tests._--Concentrated acid gives off irritating orange-coloured fumes
of nitric acid gas. When poured on copper, it gives off red fumes and
leaves a green solution of nitrate of copper. It gives a red colour with
brucine, turns the green sulphate of iron black, and with hydrochloric
acid dissolves gold.
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