1. With dilute nitric acid:
* The reaction is primarily an acid-base reaction.
* The dichromate ion (Cr₂O₇²⁻) acts as a weak base and reacts with nitric acid to form chromic acid (H₂CrO₄).
* The reaction can be represented as:
```
K₂Cr₂O₇ + 2 HNO₃ → 2 KNO₃ + H₂CrO₄
```
* The chromic acid is unstable and readily decomposes into water and chromium trioxide (CrO₃):
```
H₂CrO₄ → H₂O + CrO₃
```
* The overall reaction can be written as:
```
K₂Cr₂O₇ + 2 HNO₃ → 2 KNO₃ + H₂O + CrO₃
```
2. With concentrated nitric acid:
* In this case, the reaction is more complex and involves oxidation.
* Concentrated nitric acid acts as a strong oxidizer, oxidizing the dichromate ion.
* The reaction produces chromium trioxide (CrO₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and water.
```
K₂Cr₂O₇ + 4 HNO₃ → 2 KNO₃ + 2 CrO₃ + 2 NO₂ + 2 H₂O
```
Important Notes:
* The reaction with concentrated nitric acid is highly exothermic and can be dangerous.
* Potassium dichromate and chromium compounds are toxic and carcinogenic. Handle them with caution and always wear appropriate safety gear.
* The reaction is also sensitive to temperature and concentration.
Let me know if you have any other questions.