NH3
Ammonia (NH3)
Also known as: azane
Ammonia is a sharp-smelling gas whose industrial synthesis — the Haber process — feeds roughly half the world by enabling nitrogen fertilisers. The trigonal-pyramid molecule with its lone pair makes ammonia a classic weak base, accepting protons to form ammonium (NH₄⁺).
Molar mass breakdown
17.031 g/mol| Element | Atoms | Mass (g/mol) | % by mass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrogen (N) | 1 | 14.007 | 82.24% |
| Hydrogen (H) | 3 | 3.024 | 17.76% |
What ammonia is used for
- Fertiliser production — most of world output
- Household cleaners (dilute solutions)
- Refrigerant in industrial cooling
- Precursor for nitric acid and countless nitrogen chemicals
Key facts
- Molar mass ≈ 17.03 g/mol.
- Haber process: N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃ (iron catalyst, high pressure).
- A weak base: NH₃ + H₂O ⇌ NH₄⁺ + OH⁻.
Frequently asked questions
What is the molar mass of NH3?
About 17.03 g/mol: 14.007 (N) + 3 × 1.008 (H).
Is ammonia an acid or a base?
A weak base — its lone pair accepts a proton to form ammonium, NH₄⁺.
Why should ammonia never be mixed with bleach?
The combination releases toxic chloramine gases. Never mix cleaning products.