Here's why:
* Ammonia synthesis: Ammonia (NH₃) is typically synthesized from nitrogen gas (N₂) and hydrogen gas (H₂) using the Haber-Bosch process, which requires high temperatures and pressures.
* Sodium hydroxide: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a strong base and doesn't readily react with salts to form ammonia.
What you can do to produce ammonia gas:
You can produce ammonia gas by reacting ammonium salts (like ammonium chloride, NH₄Cl) with strong bases like sodium hydroxide (NaOH):
NH₄Cl (aq) + NaOH (aq) → NH₃ (g) + H₂O (l) + NaCl (aq)
In this reaction:
* Ammonium chloride (NH₄Cl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
* Ammonia gas (NH₃) is released as a byproduct.
* Water (H₂O) is also produced.
* Sodium chloride (NaCl) remains in solution.
Important Note: This reaction should be performed carefully in a fume hood as ammonia gas is toxic and irritating.
