Applications
Sodium nitrate is used in the production of fertilizers, nitric acid, pyrotechnics, smoke-bombs, glass and pottery enamels. In combination with boron trifluoride it forms an efficient reagent for nitration of aromatic compounds. Adsorption on alumina provides an environmentally benign aromatic nitrating agent. Further it finds use as food preservative and as a solid rocket propellant. It is also used as an electrolyte in a salt bridge, and as thermal storage medium in power generation systems.

Solubility
Freely soluble in water, ammonia and hydrazine. Soluble in alcohol.Slightly soluble in pyridine.

Notes
Sodium nitrate is hygroscopic in nature.