NH3: meaning, definitions and examples
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NH3
[ eɪtʃ θriː ]
chemical compound
NH3, commonly known as ammonia, is a colorless gas with a distinct pungent smell. It is made up of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms. Ammonia is used in various applications such as fertilizer production, cleaning products, and as a refrigerant.
Synonyms
ammonia, azane.
Examples of usage
- The fertilizer contained NH3 to boost plant growth.
- Inhaling NH3 can cause irritation to the respiratory system.
- NH3 is commonly used in industrial refrigeration systems.
- The chemist synthesized NH3 in the laboratory for the experiment.
Etymology
The term 'ammonia' is derived from the Latin word 'sal ammoniacus', which means salt of Ammon. This term refers to a certain type of salt obtained from the ashes of the desert plant that was originally associated with the temple of Amun near the Siwa Oasis in Libya. The chemical formula NH3 was established in the 18th century when scientists began to understand the composition of gases. In the early 19th century, ammonia began to be produced on a larger scale through various industrial processes, helping to pave the way for advances in agriculture and refrigeration methods. Ammonia's role as a nitrogen source in fertilizers has made it a crucial compound in boosting food production worldwide.