barium nitrate solution is a solution that contains the chemical compound of barium cations and nitrate anions. It also exists naturally as the rare mineral nitrobarite. This compound acts as an oxidizer, enhancing the combustion of other substances. This property makes it an important ingredient in fireworks. It is also used in tracer bullets, which help track the path of a fired missile. Moreover, it is a primary ingredient in the creation of flares.
Despite the fact that barium nitrate is itself inherently non-combustible, it can still explode if exposed to high heat for extended periods of time. It can also be toxic by ingestion or inhalation. If ingested, it may cause vomiting and diarrhea. When inhaled, it can lead to irritation of the nose and throat. It can also cause hypokalaemia, resulting in cardiac and muscular disorders.
The most common method to prepare this compound is by dissolving barium carbonate in recycled mother lye. This is then reacted with nitric acid. The resulting solution is then filtered to remove any excess heavy metals. Afterwards, it is crystallized at low temperatures.
This compound can also be found in camera lenses, which help increase the refractive index and therefore produce clearer pictures. The most common use for this chemical, however, is in the production of tracer bullets. These bullets are used in warfare to trace the route taken by a fired projectile. They are typically placed at the end of a firearm, and their charge lights when the projectile is shot, which allows soldiers to follow the trajectory of the projectile.