ANS:B - ammonia

Ammonia (NH3) is a colorless gas with a characteristic pungent odor. It is composed of one nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms. Here are some key points about ammonia:

1. Production: Ammonia is produced industrially through the Haber-Bosch process, which involves the reaction of nitrogen gas (N2) and hydrogen gas (H2) under high pressure (typically around 200-300 atmospheres) and high temperature (around 400-500°C) in the presence of an iron catalyst. This process allows for the synthesis of large quantities of ammonia, which is a crucial precursor for the production of fertilizers, explosives, and various other chemicals.
2. Fertilizer Production: Ammonia is a key raw material in the production of nitrogen-based fertilizers, including urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate. These fertilizers provide essential nitrogen nutrients to plants, promoting healthy growth and improving crop yields. Ammonia can also be directly applied to soil as an agricultural fertilizer, although it is less commonly used in its gaseous form due to safety and handling concerns.
3. Household and Industrial Uses: In addition to its role in agriculture, ammonia has various other applications. It is used in household cleaning products, such as window cleaners and floor cleaners, due to its ability to dissolve grease and remove stains. In the manufacturing industry, ammonia is used as a refrigerant in industrial refrigeration systems, as a precursor in the production of plastics and synthetic fibers, and as a pH adjuster in water treatment processes.
4. Properties: Ammonia is highly soluble in water, forming a weakly alkaline solution known as ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH). This solution is commonly referred to as "ammonia water" or "aqueous ammonia." Ammonia has a characteristic pungent odor, which is detectable even at low concentrations. It is lighter than air and can form explosive mixtures with air in certain concentration ranges.
5. Safety Considerations: While ammonia is a valuable industrial chemical, it is also hazardous if mishandled or released into the environment. Exposure to high concentrations of ammonia vapor can irritate the eyes, nose, and respiratory tract, and prolonged exposure can cause more severe health effects. Proper handling, storage, and ventilation are essential when working with ammonia to minimize risks to human health and safety.

Overall, ammonia is a versatile compound with widespread industrial applications, particularly in agriculture, cleaning, and manufacturing. Its production and use play critical roles in various sectors of the economy, making it an important commodity in the global chemical industry.