Ammonia (NH3) is a colorless,
pungent-smelling gas composed of one nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen
atoms. It is a vital industrial chemical with numerous applications in
agriculture, industry, and household products.
Here are the details of Ammonia along with its CAS number:
Chemical formula: NH3
Molecular weight: 17.031 g/mol
Density: 0.73 kg/m³ (at standard conditions)
Melting point: -77.73 °C (-107.91 °F; 195.42
K)
Boiling point: -33.34 °C (-28.01 °F; 239.81
K)
Solubility in water: Highly soluble, forming
an alkaline solution
Ammonia is produced industrially through the Haber-Bosch process, which involves the reaction of nitrogen gas (N2) and hydrogen gas (H2) in the presence of a catalyst at high temperature and pressure.
Here are some common uses of Ammonia:
1. Fertilizers: Ammonia is a key component in the production of nitrogen-based fertilizers such as ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, and urea. These fertilizers provide essential nitrogen nutrients to crops and promote plant growth.
2. Chemical Manufacturing: Ammonia is used in the production of various chemicals, including nitric acid, ammonium compounds, explosives (such as TNT), plastics, synthetic fibers (such as nylon), and pharmaceuticals.
3. Cleaning Products: Ammonia is used in household and industrial cleaning products such as glass cleaners, floor cleaners, and bathroom cleaners. It is effective for removing grease, grime, and stains from surfaces.
4. Refrigeration: Ammonia is used as a refrigerant in industrial refrigeration systems, cold storage facilities, and air conditioning units. It has excellent thermodynamic properties and is environmentally friendly compared to synthetic refrigerants.
5. Water Treatment: Ammonia is used in water treatment processes for the removal of contaminants such as heavy metals and chlorine. It forms complexes with metal ions and helps precipitate them for removal from water.
6. Textile Industry: Ammonia is used in the textile industry for dyeing and printing fabrics. It acts as a mordant to fix dyes to fibers and improve color fastness.
7. Pharmaceuticals: Ammonia is used in the pharmaceutical industry for various purposes, including pH adjustment, synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, and production of certain drugs.
Ammonia is valued for its versatility, low cost, and abundance. However, it is highly toxic and can pose health and environmental hazards if not handled properly. Exposure to high concentrations of ammonia vapor can cause respiratory irritation, lung damage, and other health problems. Proper safety precautions, including ventilation and personal protective equipment, should be followed when working with or near ammonia.
If you need further information or have specific questions, feel free to ask!