The reaction produces hydrogen gas, which is dangerously explosive when mixed with oxygen.
The reaction is a metal-acid reaction, where a salt, copper nitrate, and hydrogen gas is produced. The reaction equation is:
Cu + 2HNO₃ → Cu(NO₃)₂ + H₂(g)
Hydrogen gas is a very explosive gas so it requires a fume hood for effective disposal and prevention of buildup
