When barium nitrate is heated, it undergoes a decomposition reaction, releasing oxygen and nitrogen dioxide gases. This property makes it useful as an oxidizing agent in pyrotechnics and other chemical reactions. Barium nitrate can also react with other chemicals, such as sulfuric acid, to produce insoluble barium sulfate, which is commonly used in diagnostic medical procedures to identify blockages or other issues in the digestive system. The properties of barium nitrate are due to its molecular structure, which is made up of barium cations (Ba2+) and nitrate anions (NO3-). The barium cations have a large ionic radius and a high charge density, making them highly reactive and able to form strong bonds with other ions. The nitrate anions, on the other hand, are highly soluble in water and have a negative charge, making them good oxidizing agents.