What is NH3? Important Knowledge About NH3

  1. Definition of NH3:
    NH3, also known as ammonia, is a chemical compound that contains nitrogen and hydrogen, forming a molecule that contains one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. Its English name is Ammonia. The atomic weight of ammonia is 17, with 14 from nitrogen and 3 from hydrogen. In the NH3 molecule, nitrogen is bonded to the three hydrogen atoms through three covalent bonds. As a simple compound of nitrogen, ammonia is an important source of nitrogen for many chemical reactions.

  2. Properties of NH3:

2.1 Physical properties of NH3:
Ammonia is in a gaseous state at standard temperature and pressure, colorless and has a strong distinctive smell. Its pH level is usually high due to its ability to accept protons, making it basic.

2.2 Chemical properties of NH3:
Ammonia has strong alkalinity towards acids to form salts and water. It can also react with metals to create nitrides and hydrogen.

  1. Chemical equation:
    Ammonia typically reacts with metals like Mg, Al to create nitrides and hydrogen. It also reacts with acids such as HCl, H2SO4 to create ammonium salts and water. Ammonia can also react with nonmetals like Cl2, O2.

  2. Preparation of NH3:

4.1 Laboratory preparation of NH3:
Ammonia can be prepared in the lab from ammonium nitrate due to high temperature or from ammonium carbonate due to temperature and acid.

4.2 Industrial preparation of NH3:
Ammonia is industrially produced using the Haber-Bosch process, in which nitrogen and hydrogen are combined at high pressure and high temperature in the presence of a catalyst.

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