Ammoniumjodidiin

Ammoniumjodidiin is the ammonium salt of iodide, with the chemical formula NH4I. It consists of the ammonium cation NH4+ and the iodide anion I-. The compound forms a white crystalline solid that is readily soluble in water.

Preparation and occurrence: It can be prepared by neutralizing hydroiodic acid (HI) with ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH): HI + NH4OH → NH4I + H2O. It also appears in analytical procedures where iodide ions are required and can be generated in situ by reactions that yield NH4I as a product.

Properties: Ammonium iodide is hygroscopic and highly soluble in water. On heating, it dehydrates and thermally decomposes to give ammonia (NH3) and hydroiodic acid (HI). In the presence of oxidizing agents, iodide can be oxidized to iodine (I2).

Applications: It serves as a convenient source of iodide ions in laboratory synthesis and in qualitative inorganic analysis, including iodometric titration. It can be used to introduce iodide into organic reactions and as a precursor to iodine under certain reductive conditions.

Safety: Ammonium iodide is an irritant and should be handled with appropriate protective equipment. It can release ammonia gas when heated and may irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It should be stored away from strong oxidizers and kept in a tightly closed container to minimize moisture uptake.