What is Ammonium Chloride?

Ammonium chloride is a compound made up of ammonia and hydrogen chloride. It is also known as sal ammoniac and has the chemical formula NH4Cl.

Physical Properties of Ammonium Chloride

• Appearance: White crystalline solid
• Odor: Characteristic ammonia odor
• Solubility: Soluble in water
• Melting Point: 338 °C (640 °F)
• Boiling Point: 520 °C (968 °F)

Chemical Properties of Ammonium Chloride

Ammonium chloride can undergo various chemical reactions, including:

• Reacting with strong bases to form ammonia gas and water
• Reacting with strong acids to form ammonium salts
• Sublimation at high temperatures, meaning it transitions from a solid directly to a gas

Uses of Ammonium Chloride

Ammonium chloride has several important uses, including:

• As a nitrogen source in fertilizers
• In dry cell batteries as a fluxing agent
• In medicine as an expectorant to help clear mucus from the respiratory system
• In food products as a food additive and a yeast nutrient

Health and Safety Considerations

When handling ammonium chloride, it's important to consider the following:

• Avoid ingestion, inhalation, and prolonged skin contact
• Use in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of ammonia fumes
• Store in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials

Conclusion

Ammonium chloride is a versatile compound with various uses in industry, agriculture, and medicine. Understanding its properties and applications is crucial for its safe handling and effective utilization in different fields.