X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to characterize cobalt nitrate. The specimen is a powder purchased from Sigma Aldrich and was fixed to a stainless-steel sample holder with copper 3MTM double-sided adhesive tape. Survey spectra and Co 2p, N 1s, O 1s, C 1s, and Co 3p core level spectra were acquired. Results evidenced the chemical surface state and interactions of elements that constitute the cobalt nitrate.