Ammonium Chloride Formula

Table of Contents

Ammonium chloride, with the chemical formula NH4Cl, is an inorganic compound composed of ammonium ions (NH4+) and chloride ions (Cl-). It is commonly known as sal ammoniac and is widely used in various applications due to its distinctive physical and chemical properties.

Formula and Structure of Ammonium Chloride

The formula of ammonium chloride, NH4Cl, represents its chemical composition. It consists of one ammonium ion (NH4+) and one chloride ion (Cl-). The ammonium ion is a positively charged polyatomic ion, formed by the combination of one nitrogen atom (N) and four hydrogen atoms (H+). The chloride ion is a negatively charged ion composed of a single chlorine atom (Cl).

The structure of ammonium chloride can be visualized as a lattice arrangement of ammonium ions and chloride ions. The ammonium ions are positioned at the corners of the lattice, with the chloride ions surrounding them. This ionic arrangement contributes to the overall stability of the compound.

Physical Properties of Ammonium Chloride

Appearance: Ammonium chloride typically exists as a white crystalline solid. It is often found in powdered form or as small granules.
Odor: Ammonium chloride has a characteristic odor, which is often described as sharp or pungent.
Solubility: Ammonium chloride is highly soluble in water. When added to water, it readily dissolves, forming a clear, colorless solution. The solubility of ammonium chloride decreases with decreasing temperature.
Melting Point: The melting point of ammonium chloride is relatively low, around 338 degrees Fahrenheit (170 degrees Celsius). Upon heating, it undergoes sublimation, meaning it directly converts from a solid to a gaseous state without passing through the liquid phase.
Density: Ammonium chloride has a density of approximately 1.53 grams per cubic centimeter. The density of the compound may vary slightly depending on the temperature and pressure.

Chemical Properties of Ammonium Chloride

Acidic Nature: Ammonium chloride is an acidic compound. When dissolved in water, it undergoes hydrolysis, resulting in the formation of ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) and hydrochloric acid (HCl). This hydrolysis reaction makes the solution slightly acidic.
Volatility: Ammonium chloride exhibits significant volatility due to its relatively low melting point. When heated, it readily sublimes, releasing ammonia gas (NH3) and hydrogen chloride gas (HCl).
Reaction with Alkalis: Ammonium chloride reacts with alkali compounds, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), to form ammonia gas, water, and the corresponding metal chloride. This reaction is often used in the laboratory to generate ammonia gas.
Saline Taste: Ammonium chloride has a distinct, salty taste. It is sometimes used as a flavoring agent in certain foods, particularly salty licorice candies.
Flame Coloration: When heated in a flame, ammonium chloride imparts a characteristic yellow coloration. This property is often employed in flame tests to identify the presence of ammonium ions in chemical compounds.
Chemical Stability: Ammonium chloride is generally stable under normal conditions. However, it can decompose when exposed to high temperatures, releasing ammonia gas and hydrogen chloride gas.
Conductivity: Ammonium chloride is an electrolyte and can conduct electricity when dissolved in water or in a molten state. The presence of dissociated ions enables the flow of electric current.
Corrosive Effect: Ammonium chloride, in its concentrated form, can be corrosive to certain metals. It is important to handle the compound with care to avoid damage to equipment or surfaces.

Solved examples on the formula of Ammonium Chloride (NH4Cl)

Example 1: Calculating the Molar Mass of Ammonium Chloride

To determine the molar mass of ammonium chloride (NH4Cl), we need to sum up the atomic masses of each element in the formula.

Solution:

Atomic mass of nitrogen (N) = 14.01 g/mol

Atomic mass of hydrogen (H) = 1.01 g/mol (x 4 since there are 4 hydrogen atoms in NH4)

Atomic mass of chlorine (Cl) = 35.45 g/mol

Molar mass of NH4Cl = (14.01 g/mol) + (1.01 g/mol x 4) + 35.45 g/mol = 53.49 g/mol

Therefore, the molar mass of ammonium chloride is approximately 53.49 g/mol.

Example 2: Determining the Number of Moles in a Given Mass

If we have 25 grams of ammonium chloride (NH4Cl), we can calculate the number of moles present using the molar mass of NH4Cl.

Solution:

Molar mass of NH4Cl = 53.49 g/mol

Number of moles = Mass / Molar mass

Number of moles = 25 g / 53.49 g/mol ≈ 0.468 moles

Therefore, there are approximately 0.468 moles of ammonium chloride in 25 grams.

Example 3: Stoichiometry and Reaction Calculation

Suppose we have a balanced chemical equation representing the reaction between ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH).

Solution:

NH4Cl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O + NH3

If we have 5 moles of ammonium chloride (NH4Cl), we can calculate the number of moles of other substances involved in the reaction.

From the balanced equation, the stoichiometry ratio between NH4Cl and NaOH is 1:1.

Number of moles of NaOH = 5 moles (since the ratio is 1:1)

Similarly, the stoichiometry ratio between NH4Cl and NH3 is also 1:1.

Number of moles of NH3 = 5 moles

Therefore, if we start with 5 moles of ammonium chloride, we will produce 5 moles of sodium hydroxide and 5 moles of ammonia.

Frequently Asked Question about Ammonium Chloride formula

What is NH4Cl called?

NH4Cl is called ammonium chloride. It is a chemical compound made up of ammonium ions (NH4+) and chloride ions (Cl-).

What is ammonium chloride used for?

Ammonium chloride has several practical applications. It is used as a soldering flux in electronics and metalwork, aiding in the joining of metals. Additionally, it finds use in dry cell batteries as an electrolyte. Moreover, ammonium chloride is utilized in the formulation of cough medicines to help loosen mucus and relieve coughing.

Why ammonium chloride is banned?

Ammonium chloride may be banned or restricted in certain countries due to concerns about its potential health hazards. Ingesting large amounts of ammonium chloride can lead to adverse effects, including gastrointestinal distress. Therefore, regulations and bans are implemented to protect public health and safety.

Is NH4Cl a base or acid?

NH4Cl is an acidic compound. When dissolved in water, it forms ammonium ions (NH4+) and chloride ions (Cl-). The ammonium ion can donate a proton (H+) to water, making the solution slightly acidic.

What is the formula for ammonium chloride?

The chemical formula for ammonium chloride is NH4Cl. This formula represents the combination of one ammonium ion (NH4+) and one chloride ion (Cl-) in the compound.