NITRATES, CARBONATES, BORATES

Nitrates are defined by their triangular (NO3)– groups, which bear a resemblance to the (CO3)2– groups found in carbonates, resulting in structural similarities between the two mineral classes. The nitrogen cation (N5+) possesses a high charge and exhibits strong polarizing characteristics, akin to the carbon cation (C4+) in the CO3 group. The NO3 group forms a tightly bound triangular complex through its three nitrogen-oxygen bonds, which are stronger than any other bonds present in the crystal structure. Due to the superior strength of the nitrogen-oxygen bond compared to the carbon-oxygen bond in carbonates, nitrates are less prone to decomposition when exposed to acids.

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