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Ammonium sulfate

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Identification
Molecular formula
(NH4)2SO4
CAS number
7783-20-2
IUPAC name
ammonia;sulfuric acid
State
State

At room temperature, ammonium sulfate is a solid. It is typically handled as a granulated solid or powder.

Melting point (Celsius)
280.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
553.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
235.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
508.15
General information
Molecular weight
132.14g/mol
Molar mass
132.1400g/mol
Density
1.7700g/cm3
Appearence

Ammonium sulfate appears as a white, crystalline solid. It is a fine powder that is often odorless. It may form white crystals if the atmospheric moisture is right, as it is somewhat hygroscopic.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ammonia and Sulfuric Acid

When discussing the solubility of ammonia (NH3) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4), it is essential to note the highly soluble nature of both compounds, particularly in water.

Ammonia (NH3)

Ammonia is a polar molecule, which contributes significantly to its high solubility in water. Key points include:

  • Ammonia is highly soluble in water at a concentration of up to 30% by weight.
  • It exhibits the ability to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, enhancing its solubility.
  • As a gas, it readily dissolves, leading to the formation of an alkaline solution, which is useful in various applications.

Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4)

Sulfuric acid is known for its strong hygroscopic properties and is also highly soluble in water. Consider the following:

  • When mixed with water, sulfuric acid can release a significant amount of heat, which must be managed carefully.
  • It is soluble in all proportions with water, making it a vital component in many chemical processes.
  • Its solubility is influenced by temperature; higher temperatures typically increase it.

In summary, both ammonia and sulfuric acid demonstrate exceptional solubility in water, making them crucial for various chemical reactions and industrial applications. Their interactions with water necessitate careful handling and awareness of their exothermic nature to ensure safe practices in their use.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Ammonia and Sulfuric Acid

Ammonia and sulfuric acid are two fascinating chemical compounds that play significant roles in various chemical processes and industries. Here are some compelling facts about each:

Ammonia (NH3)

  • Essential Nutrient: Ammonia is a key player in the nitrogen cycle, a vital process for all living organisms as it is a primary source of nitrogen for the synthesis of amino acids and nucleotides.
  • Industrial Applications: It serves as a fundamental building block in the production of fertilizers, cleaning products, and even pharmaceuticals.
  • Environmental Impact: While beneficial in small quantities, excess ammonia can lead to environmental problems, contributing to water pollution and affecting aquatic life.
  • Physical Properties: Ammonia is known for its characteristic pungent smell and is highly soluble in water, forming a weakly basic solution.

Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4)

  • Production Leader: Sulfuric acid is one of the most widely produced industrial chemicals in the world, often referred to as the 'king of chemicals' due to its crucial role in the manufacture of fertilizers, explosives, and dyes.
  • Strong Acid: It is a highly corrosive strong acid that can cause severe chemical burns on contact, making handling it necessitate strict safety precautions.
  • Heat Generation: The reaction of sulfuric acid with water is highly exothermic, which means it releases heat and can cause splattering if not mixed properly.
  • Dehydrating Agent: Sulfuric acid is a very effective dehydrating agent, commonly used in laboratories and industries to remove water from various substances.

In conclusion, both ammonia and sulfuric acid have unique properties and vast applications that impact multiple areas, from agriculture to manufacturing. Understanding their roles not only contributes to advancements in chemical science but also helps address environmental concerns.

Synonyms
Ammonium sulfate, AR
Nonne-Apelt's reagent
Ammonium sulfate, ACS reagent
CHEMBL2107724
Ammonium sulfate solution, 3.2 M
Ammonium sulfate, puriss., >=99%
AKOS015902403
Ammonium sulfate, BioXtra, >=99.0%
Ammonium sulfate, technical grade, 99%
Ammonium sulfate, ACS reagent, >=99%
BS-22309
Ammonium sulfate, USP, 99.0-100.5%
Ammonium sulfate, ACS reagent, >=99.0%
Ammonium sulfate, BioUltra, >=99.5% (T)
Ammonium sulfate, 99.999% trace metals basis
Ammonium sulfate, SAJ first grade, >=99.0%
Ammonium sulfate, JIS special grade, >=99.5%
Ammonium sulfate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 99%
Q191831
Ammonium sulfate, for molecular biology, >=99.0%
Ammonium sulfate, >=99.5%, for biological purposes
Ammonium sulfate, plant cell culture tested, >=99.0%
Ammonium sulfate, p.a., 99.5%, ACS reagent, reag. ISO
Sulfur standard for ICP, for ICP, ready-to-use, in H2O
IAEA-N-1 (nitrogen isotopes in ammonium sulfate), NIST RM 8547
IAEA-N-2 (nitrogen isotopes in ammonium sulfate), NIST RM 8548
USGS25 (nitrogen isotopes in ammonium sulfate), NIST RM 8550
USGS26 (nitrogen isotopes in ammonium sulfate), NIST RM 8551
Ammonium sulfate, anhydrous, free-flowing, Redi-Dri(TM), ACS reagent, >=99.0%
Ammonium sulfate, puriss. p.a., ACS reagent, reag. ISO, reag. Ph. Eur., >=99%
Ammonium sulfate, analytical standard, for Nitrogen Determination According to Kjeldahl Method, traceable to NIST SRM 194