Goldsmiths use aquaregia which is prepared by mixing

Nitric acid and sulphuric acid
Nitric acid and hydrochloric acid
Sulphuric acid and hydrochloric acid
Citric acid and benzoic acid

The correct answer is (a). Aqua regia is a mixture of concentrated nitric acid and concentrated hydrochloric acid. It is a powerful oxidizing agent and can dissolve gold and platinum. It is used in gold refining and in etching metals.

Nitric acid is a strong acid that is corrosive to metals. It is also a powerful oxidizing agent. Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid that is also corrosive to metals. It is not as powerful an oxidizing agent as nitric acid, but it is still a strong enough oxidizing agent to dissolve gold and platinum.

Citric acid is a weak acid that is found in citrus fruits. It is not a strong enough oxidizing agent to dissolve gold or platinum. Benzoic acid is a weak acid that is found in many plants. It is not a strong enough oxidizing agent to dissolve gold or platinum.

Aqua regia is a dangerous substance and should be handled with care. It can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes. It can also be harmful if inhaled or ingested.

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