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Ammonium

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Identification
Molecular formula
NH4+
CAS number
14798-03-9
IUPAC name
ammonium
State
State

Ammonium is commonly found in solution as an ion and does not exist as a free state at room temperature. While the ammonium ion (NH4+) itself is not typically isolated, ammonium compounds like ammonium chloride exist as solids at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
-77.73
Melting point (Kelvin)
195.42
Boiling point (Celsius)
-33.34
Boiling point (Kelvin)
239.81
General information
Molecular weight
18.04g/mol
Molar mass
18.0380g/mol
Density
0.7690g/cm3
Appearence

Ammonium in its pure, isolated form typically appears as a white, crystalline substance similar in appearance to salts. However, ammonium is usually present in compound form, such as ammonium chloride or ammonium sulfate, where it might appear differently based on the counterion involved in the compound.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ammonium Ion (NH4+)

The ammonium ion (NH4+) is known for its remarkable solubility in water, making it an essential component in various chemical processes. Its solubility can be attributed to several factors:

  • Strong Hydration: The ammonium ion readily interacts with water molecules, resulting in a vigorous hydration process. This interaction is primarily due to the ion's positive charge, which attracts the polar water molecules.
  • Formation of Ammonium Salts: Ammonium salts, such as ammonium chloride (NH4Cl), are highly soluble. This property is significant in agricultural fertilizers where ammonium forms part of the nutrient solutions.
  • Temperature Influence: The solubility of ammonium compounds typically increases with temperature, which can be advantageous in various applications like industrial processes.

To emphasize its significance, it is often stated that:

“The solubility of the ammonium ion plays a crucial role in aquatic environments and biochemical reactions.”

In summary, the ammonium ion (NH4+) exhibits excellent solubility in aqueous solutions due to strong hydration effects, the ability to form soluble salts, and temperature dependency. Its properties make it invaluable in both industrial and environmental chemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Ammonium

Ammonium, represented as NH4+, is a fascinating polyatomic ion with a variety of applications and significance in both chemistry and biology. Here are some engaging points about this compound:

  • Essential Nutrient: Ammonium ions play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle, serving as a vital source of nitrogen for plants, which is essential for their growth and development.
  • Found in Nature: Ammonium is commonly found in natural environments, especially in soil and water, where it is produced through the decomposition of organic matter.
  • Solubility: Ammonium salts, such as ammonium chloride and ammonium sulfate, are highly soluble in water, making them useful in a variety of industrial processes, including fertilizers.
  • Acid-Base Chemistry: As a weak acid, ammonium can participate in acid-base reactions. Its potential to donate protons makes it an interesting species in various chemical equilibria.
  • Biological Relevance: Ammonium ions are not only important for plants; they are also produced by living organisms through metabolism. Ammonium is detoxified in the liver of mammals, being converted into urea.
  • Ammonium Hydroxide: When dissolved in water, it forms ammonium hydroxide, a common cleaning agent and a precursor for various chemical syntheses.

Ammonium ions are indeed a perfect representation of how a simple ion can have extensive implications across different scientific fields, reinforcing the interconnectedness of chemistry and life sciences. As the great chemist Robert H. Grubbs once said, "Chemistry is a vibrant science full of surprises!"

Synonyms
ammonium
Ammonium ion
azanium
Ammonium cation
Ammonium(1+)
14798-03-9
NH4+
Ammonium (NH4+)
Ammonia ion
Ammonium ion(+)
nitrogen(1+)
Ammonium ion(1+)
AMMONIUM CATION WITH D
Ammonia ion (NH4+)
UNII-54S68520I4
Ammonium ion (NH4+)
NH4(+)
15194-15-7
54S68520I4
DTXSID5043974
CHEBI:28938
Ammonium Standard: NH4+ @ 100 microg/mL in H2O
nitrenium ion
(NH4)(+)
[NH4](+)
ND4
Ammonium Standard: NH4+ @ 1000 microg/mL in H2O
Ammonium Standard: NH4+ @ 10000 microg/mL in H2O
Nitrogen cation
Aminylium ion
NH-4
a secondary amine
Ammonium(+)
Nitrogen tetrahydride
hydridonitrogen(1+)
secondary amine(1+)
secondary ammonium ion
Amidogen, ion(1+)
Ammonia ion (NH2+)
AMMONIUM STANDARD
Ammonium (8CI,9CI)
Ammonia, ion (NH41+)
DTXCID3023974
CHEBI:29352
CHEBI:137419
DTXSID201318517
[NH4]+
AKOS015914233
14158-23-7
6684-80-6
N(+)
Ammonium standard solution (100 ppm NH4)
NS00114191
C01342
Q190901
Q27110020
Q27110023
Q27110026
Q27110062
Ammonium Ion Chromatography Standard in H2O,Ammonium-NH4(+) @100microg/mL
Ammonium Ion Chromatography Standard in H2O,Ammonium - NH4(+) @100microg/mL