Diazotization Method for Nitrate and Nitrite

Abstract

This article discusses a procedure to provide a reliable, accurate method for the determination of nitrate in water. The method is based on the reduction of nitrate to nitrite by hydrazine in hot alkaline solution, subsequent diazotization of the nitrite so formed, and reaction of the diazo compound with 1‐naphthylethylenediamine to form an intensely colored red dye. Of particular importance is the freedom from interference characteristic of the method.