Ammoniac: meaning, definitions and examples
💨
ammoniac
[ əˈmoʊniːək ]
chemical compound
Ammoniac, commonly referred to as ammonia, is a colorless gas with a characteristic pungent odor. It is composed of nitrogen and hydrogen (NH3) and is widely used in fertilizers, cleaning products, and as a refrigerant.
Synonyms
ammonia, azane.
Examples of usage
- The ammonia released during the process was harmful to the workers.
- Farmers often use ammoniac fertilizers to enhance crop yield.
- Ammoniac is an important component in many industrial processes.
Etymology
The term 'ammoniac' derives from the Latin word 'ammoniacus,' which itself comes from the Greek word 'ammoniakos.' These terms are linked to the ancient Egyptian deity Amun, whose temple at Siwa utilized salt deposits that produced ammonia upon heating. The gas was first isolated in the 18th century, contributing to its further study and application in various fields. The significance of ammoniac in agriculture and industry has influenced its nomenclature through the ages, highlighting its essential role in the development of modern chemistry.