Skip to main content

Ammonium Nitrite

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
NH4NO2
CAS number
13446-48-5
IUPAC name
ammonium;nitrite
State
State

State: Solid

At room temperature, it is a solid but is known to be highly unstable and decomposes easily, especially when warm. It decomposes into nitrogen gas and water.

Melting point (Celsius)
-18.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
255.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
337.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
610.15
General information
Molecular weight
64.06g/mol
Molar mass
64.0560g/mol
Density
1.6900g/cm3
Appearence

Ammonium nitrite typically appears as white or colorless crystals. It is a salt that is rarely encountered in pure form due to its instability.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ammonium Nitrite

Ammonium nitrite (NH4NO2) is a fascinating compound known for its interesting solubility properties. It is highly soluble in water, which is a characteristic of many ammonium salts. This solubility can be attributed to the strong interactions between ammonium ions (NH4+) and water molecules. Here are some important points regarding its solubility:

  • Solubility in Water: Ammonium nitrite dissolves readily in water, making it suitable for various applications, particularly in chemical synthesis and laboratory work.
  • Temperature Dependency: The solubility of ammonium nitrite tends to increase with temperature, which is common for many salts.
  • Solvent Polarity: Its solubility can also be influenced by the polarity of the solvent; polar solvents enhance dissolution.
  • Formation of Ions: When dissolved, ammonium nitrite dissociates into ammonium and nitrite ions, increasing the ionic strength of the solution.

It is essential to note the implications of this solubility in various settings. For instance, as the solubility is high, solutions of ammonium nitrite can be concentrated without significant precipitation, making it useful in numerous chemical processes.

Despite its advantageous solubility, caution should be exercised, as solutions can be unstable and can decompose under certain conditions, leading to potential hazards. Thus, always handle it with care and appropriate safety measures.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Ammonium Nitrite

Ammonium nitrite, a compound with the formula NH4NO2, is a fascinating and somewhat versatile substance in the world of chemistry. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Nature of the Compound: Ammonium nitrite is an inorganic salt formed from the reaction of ammonia and nitrous acid. This unique combination results in its interesting chemical properties.
  • Role in Chemistry: It is often used as a reagent in various chemical syntheses and can act as a source of nitrite ion in certain processes. This makes it valuable in both laboratory settings and industrial applications.
  • Stability Challenges: Ammonium nitrite is notably unstable, especially when it is in dissolved form. It can decompose to release nitrogen oxide gases, which can be hazardous if not properly managed.
  • Oxidizing Agent: In some instances, ammonium nitrite acts as an oxidizing agent, playing a crucial part in redox reactions. This property makes it useful in explosives and propellants.
  • Applications in Food Industry: While ammonium nitrite is primarily known for its roles in chemistry, it has been used in the food industry as a curing agent, particularly in processed meats. However, its use is regulated due to health concerns related to nitrosamines.

In summary, ammonium nitrite is much more than just a simple compound. Its versatile applications, significance in chemical reactions, and various roles across different industries make it a noteworthy subject of study in the field of chemistry. As the famous chemist Linus Pauling once said, "The best way to have a good idea is to have lots of ideas." Ammonium nitrite certainly showcases the interplay of creativity and science!

Synonyms
Ammonium nitrite
Nitrous acid, ammonium salt (1:1)
Nitrous acid, ammonium salt
Caswell No. 044C
EINECS 236-598-7
71ZQG69956
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 076201
DTXSID7065461
UNII-71ZQG69956
EC 236-598-7
AMMONIUM NITRITE (NH4NO2)
Nitrous acid ammonium salt
DTXCID6034213
Nitrous acid ammonium salt (1:1)
UN3219
236-598-7
13446-48-5
azanium;nitrite
Ammoniumnitrit
Ammonium nitrite [Forbidden]
AMMONIUM NITRITE, 20per cent SOLN
NS00086938