amoníac

Ammonia is a colorless gas with a characteristic pungent odor. Its chemical formula is NH3, indicating that each molecule consists of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. It is a vital compound for life and is produced naturally in the body by the breakdown of proteins. In its pure form, ammonia is a gas at room temperature and pressure, but it is often handled and transported as a liquefied gas under pressure or as an aqueous solution.

Ammonia is highly soluble in water, forming ammonium hydroxide. This solution is alkaline and can be corrosive. Industrially, ammonia is synthesized through the Haber-Bosch process, which combines nitrogen from the air with hydrogen gas under high temperature and pressure. This process is crucial for the production of fertilizers, which are essential for modern agriculture.

Beyond its agricultural applications, ammonia has numerous industrial uses. It is a key ingredient in the manufacturing of plastics, explosives, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used as a refrigerant due to its high heat of vaporization. In household cleaning products, ammonia solutions are effective degreasers and disinfectants. However, due to its strong odor and potential for irritation, it should be used with adequate ventilation and caution.