NH₃(aq) + H₂O(l) ⇌ NH₄⁺(aq) + OH⁻(aq)

Here's a breakdown of the reaction:

* NH₃(aq) represents ammonia dissolved in water.

* H₂O(l) represents liquid water.

* NH₄⁺(aq) represents the ammonium ion, which is formed when ammonia accepts a proton (H⁺) from water.

* OH⁻(aq) represents the hydroxide ion, which is also formed in the reaction.

This reaction is an equilibrium reaction, meaning it proceeds in both directions simultaneously. Ammonia acts as a weak base, accepting a proton from water and forming ammonium ions and hydroxide ions. This reaction is responsible for the basic nature of ammonia solutions.