Dissolving Equation for NH3: NH3 + H2O = NH4+ + OH-

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SUMMARY

The dissolution equation for ammonia (NH3) in water is accurately represented as NH3 + H2O ⇌ NH4+ + OH-. This reaction involves ammonia accepting a proton (H+) from a water molecule, resulting in the formation of ammonium ions (NH4+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). However, it is important to note that the equilibrium of this reaction lies significantly to the left, indicating that ammonia primarily exists in its dissolved form without extensive reaction with water.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of acid-base chemistry, particularly proton transfer reactions.
  • Familiarity with chemical equilibrium concepts.
  • Knowledge of aqueous solution behavior of ammonia.
  • Basic grasp of ionic species in solution.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of chemical equilibrium and Le Chatelier's principle.
  • Learn about the properties and behavior of weak bases, specifically ammonia.
  • Explore the concept of pH and its relationship with hydroxide and ammonium ions in solution.
  • Investigate the applications of ammonia in various chemical processes and its environmental impact.
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Chemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the behavior of ammonia in aqueous solutions and its implications in acid-base chemistry.

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Homework Statement


write the dissolution equation for NH3(ammonia)

The Attempt at a Solution



I think that the NH3 steals a proton(H+) from a water molecule therefore creating a hydroxide ion and a ammonium ion is this correct? here is what i have done.

NH3(s)----H20---->NH4+(aq) + OH-(aq)

I may have solved this on my own but I like to be certain and I won't get a chance to ask my instructor before I must hand my assignment in. Thanks!
 
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That's a little bit tricky. In general, ammonia just dissolves, and it doesn't react with water.

Reaction you wrote does occur, but the equilibrium is far to the left.
 

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