Ammonium Salts
Salt Compounds Containing An Ammonium Cation
About Ammonium Salts
Ammonium salts are a class of chemical compounds that contain the ammonium ion (NH4+) as a cation. The ammonium ion is a positively charged polyatomic ion composed of one nitrogen atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms. It is formed when ammonia (NH3) accepts a proton (H+) from an acid.
Ammonium salts are widely used in various industries and applications due to their versatility and diverse properties.
Common Uses And Applications
- Ammonium Chloride (NH4Cl): Also known as sal ammoniac, ammonium chloride has several applications. It is used as a fertilizer in agricultural practices, as a flux in metal working and soldering, and as a component in dry cell batteries. It is also utilized in the pharmaceutical industry and can be found in cough medicines and expectorants.
- Ammonium Sulfate ((NH4)2SO4): Ammonium sulfate is commonly used as a fertilizer in agriculture. It provides a source of nitrogen and sulfur for plants. It is also used in flame retardants, food additives, and in the production of textiles, paper, and dyes.
- Ammonium Nitrate (NH4NO4): Ammonium nitrate is an important nitrogen-based fertilizer widely used in agriculture. It is also used as an ingredient in explosives, such as ANFO (ammonium nitrate fuel oil), which is commonly used in mining and construction.
- Ammonium Carbonate ((NH4)2CO3): Ammonium carbonate has applications as a leavening agent in baking and in the production of smelling salts. It has a strong odor and is used in certain industrial processes and as an acidity regulator in food products.
- Ammonium Hydroxide (NH4OH): Ammonium hydroxide, also known as ammonia solution, is used as a cleaning agent and in household cleaners. It is also used in the manufacturing of textiles, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.
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