Ammonium chloride

Ammonium chloride

Names
IUPAC name Ammonium chloride
Systematic IUPAC name Ammonium chloride
Other names Sal ammoniac Salmiac
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
Infobox references

Ammonium chloride is an inorganic compound with the formula NH₄Cl. It's white crystalline solid, highly soluble in water.Solutions of ammonium chloride are mildly acidic. Ammonium chloride occurs naturaly as mineral Sal ammoniac which is commonly formed on burning coal dumps, due to condensation of coal-derived gases. It is also found around some types of volcanic vents. Ammonium chloride is mainly used as fertilizer and as flavouring agent in some types of liquorice.

Properties

Chemical

Ammonium chloride will react with sodium hydroxide to give off ammonia gas.

Physical

Ammonium chloride is a white crystalline solid, soluble in water.

Availability

Ammonium chloride is sold by various chemical suppliers.

Preparation

Reaction of hydrochloric acid with ammonia will result in ammonium chloride.

NH₃ + HCl → NH₄Cl

If the reaction occurs in gaseous phase, a very fine mist of ammonium chloride will form.

Projects

• Growing crystals
• Making smoke bombs

Handling

Safety

Inhalation: Irritating to mucous membranes. Irritating to respiratory system.

Skin exposure: Repeated or prolonged exposure may cause dermatitis

Ingestion: Harmful if swallowed in large dosages. May cause nausea, vomiting and acidosis. In small dosages it can be consumed without ill effects.

Eyes contact: Irritating to eyes.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated place, in securely closed original container.

Disposal

Ammonium chloride solution could be poured down the drain or disposed in envniroment as fertilizer (In small quantities).

References

Relevant Sciencemadness threads

• Formation of Unusual Ammonium Chloride Double Salt?